Situation Report on the Crisis in the Central African Republic - February 2026

Fighting escalated in early 2026 in the Central African Republic (CAR), particularly in the south-east, as post-election tensions and fragile security resulted in fighting between the army and a non-state armed group. The consequences of this escalation around Zemio and Obo will put an estimated 3,800 children and women of reproductive age at risk of experiencing life-threatening violence. Communities in the Zemio axis now face a dire shortage of essential medical care. This gap in services most heavily impacts women and girls, who are the highest-need demographic and the primary seekers of healthcare in the area.

In February 2026, UNFPA maintained integrated sexual and reproductive health services across several regions in the CAR through fixed facilities and mobile clinics. This response included providing prenatal consultations, assisting skilled births, and delivering specialized care and family planning. UNFPA also raised awareness on gender-based violence, provided holistic support to survivors and women at risk, and distributed dignity kits to displaced populations. Youth-focused initiatives provided life-saving health information, while mobilization efforts continued for obstetric fistula repair and condom distribution to strengthen community protection networks.

In 2026, UNFPA requires US $13.2 million to deliver essential sexual and reproductive health services and respond to gender-based violence in the Central African Republic. Urgent support is needed to ensure the most vulnerable women and girls can access essential, life-saving care.