Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangui (Agenzia Fides) - Caritas Bangui, very active in providing relief to the displaced of the civil war in the Central African Republic, has distributed food aid to 49 members of the Muslim community in the city of Mbaiki (located at 107 km from the capital Bangui). According to reports sent to Agenzia Fides, the beneficiaries of the aid are Muslims forced to flee the village of Boboua (50 km from Mbaiki) because of the violence of the Anti-Balaka militias, that are in contrast with former Seleka rebels.
The displaced were welcomed at first in a MINUSCA base (UN Mission in the Central African Republic) and then in some homes. On March 24, a delegation of Caritas distributed clothes, soap, sugar, rice, oil cans, and other food to them.
The Caritas delegation was accompanied by Imam Kobine Layama, one of the three leaders of the religious platform for peace, which includes Archbishop of Bangui, Mgr. Dieudonné Nzapalainga, and pastor Nguerekoyame Gbangou. The Imam praised the local people for their generosity in receiving the displaced. "It is a gesture to encourage. This proves that there are believers in Mbaiki. The other cities should do the same. As for their return to Boboua, it will still take some time for the displaced to return to their homes", said Imam Layama.
The civil war has created deep divisions within the Central African society, and among the Christian and Muslim communities. Gestures such as the reception on behalf of the inhabitants of Mbaiki or the distribution of food carried out by Caritas are important in order to create a new climate of trust and mutual respect. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 26/03/2015)
