On 21 November 2020, the Central African Republic inaugurated its first regional ammunition depot in Bouar in the presence of the President of the Republic, Mr. Faustin-Archange Touadera, the Prime Minister, Mr. Firmin Ngrebada and the Ambassador of the European Union (EU) Ms. Samuela Isopi. This project, funded by the EU through its Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace (IcSP) and implemented by the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), has enabled, in addition to the regional ammunition depot, the construction of 4 armories in Bouar; the installation of four (4) temporary storage units for weapons and ammunition in Nola, Berberati, Paoua and Mongoumba; and the provision the specialized training in weapons and ammunition management (WAM) for 37 Central African Armed Forces (FACA) personnel who will be assigned to the western and central defense zones for the management of these infrastructures.
The project "Enhancing the Central African capacities for storing and managing weapons and ammunitions" supported the stabilization efforts and the restoration of the State authority by facilitating the deployment of the FACA in the western region. The project’s objective was to provide specialized storage infrastructure for WAM as well as the managerial capacity to apply standards, guidelines, good practices and procedures by the National Defense Forces.
This project in Bouar has contributed to the implementation of the EU strategy to fight the accumulation and illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition as well as the EU's commitment to supporting the implementation of the illicit trade of SALW and the International Tracing Instrument.
The regional depot and the armories were built according to International Mine Action Standards. The efficient and professional management of the storage facilities by trained FACA personnel will reduce the risks of looting, mismanagement and will also contribute to a secure environment for the civilian population.
During the ceremony, President Touadera expressed his gratitude to the EU and UNMAS for the continual support in strengthening the National Defense Forces’ capacities and encouraged the partners to continue their support for the restoration of the State authority in the country.