African Union Commission Chairperson Welcomes Central African Republic Peace Agreement and Dissolution of Armed Groups

Addis Abeba, Ethiopia ,July 18, 2025

Chairperson of the African Union Commission, His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has welcomed the signing of the historic peace agreement between the Government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and the armed groups Unité pour la Paix en Centrafrique (UPC) and Retour, Reclamation et Rehabilitation (3R). The agreement, concluded on April 19, 2025, in N’Djamena, Chad, marks a significant step toward revitalizing the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic (APPR-RCA).

In a statement issued today, the Chairperson praised the formal dissolution of the UPC and 3R, announced on July 10, 2025, in Bangui by the leaders of the two groups. He urged all remaining armed factions in CAR to lay down their weapons and engage in good faith with inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation efforts.

“This development is a testament to the resilience of the Central African people and their commitment to peace,” said H.E. Youssouf. “The African Union stands ready to support the full implementation of this agreement to ensure lasting stability and national cohesion.”

The Chairperson also commended the pivotal role played by His Excellency General Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, President of the Republic of Chad, whose mediation efforts exemplified the African Union’s principle of “African solutions to African problems.” Chad’s facilitation of the talks underscores the importance of regional leadership in conflict resolution.

The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to assisting CAR’s government and stakeholders in implementing the peace accord, emphasizing the need for sustainable development and long-term reconciliation. The dissolution of the UPC and 3R is seen as a critical milestone in CAR’s journey toward stability after years of conflict.

As the Central African Republic moves forward, the African Union has pledged continued support through its peacebuilding initiatives, urging the international community to bolster efforts for reconstruction and development in the country.

Emebet Asefa correspondent