The Central African Republic (CAR) is mired in a complex and multi-layered crisis that affects the peace and security of its population and creates a dire humanitarian situation. Multiple peace agreements – such as the Accord pour la Paix et la Réconciliation (APPR) of February 2019 – have recognized that political, economic, and social marginalization are key drivers of the conflict. More than 10 years since the latest crisis started in 2013, the United Nations estimates that close to half of the 6.1 million Central Africans remain in need of humanitarian support. This report looks at the role that electricity access plays in the country’s crisis, how a greater use of renewable energy can help to address this, and highlights a unique opportunity for the international community to support these efforts.
The report identifies several key findings:
- Increasing access to electricity could support greater peace and help address some of the root causes of the crisis, particularly in peripheral areas.
- Renewable energy production is a promising option for CAR.
- MINUSCA’s reliance on diesel fuel undermines its operational effectiveness and mandate implementation.
- MINUSCA is well placed to expand its use of renewable energy and is in a unique position to expand its impact in CAR.
- Other international partners have a key role to play.