CAR’s Insecurity Crisis: A Perfect Storm of Corruption, Criminality, and Weak Governance

Bangui, Central African Republic - Despite a peace deal signed by 14 armed groups with the government in 2019, the country remains one of the most insecure in Africa. The lack of effective governance and rampant corruption have created an environment where criminal networks thrive.

Corruption and Criminality

The powerful warlords involved in illicit taxation of cattle traders are a prime example of the problem. They operate with impunity, often in collaboration with corrupt state actors, including law enforcement officials and high-ranking government members.

Extortion
Illegal taxation
Cattle theft

These criminal networks are fueled by:

Unorganized traffickers, bandits, criminals, robbers, road gangs (zaraguinas), smugglers, thieves, and counterfeiters
Weak security services
Lack of citizen participation in governance

State of Governance

The CAR’s governance is characterized by a lack of transparency and accountability. The country ranks among the most fragile states in the world, with no real state presence outside Bangui.

Corruption in Government

Corruption permeates every level of government, with foreign actors involved in various criminal networks, including:

Human trafficking
Arms trafficking
Illegal gold, diamond, and timber industries

International groups have identified several suspicious bank accounts used to divert public funds from the CAR. The country has ratified most international treaties related to organized crime, but its policy-making capacity is limited.

Justice System and Security

The judicial system in the CAR lacks the capacity to combat organized crime. A large majority of the country’s prison population is in pre-trial detention, and corruption remains a major problem within law enforcement agencies.

Only functioning border posts are located between the CAR and Cameroon
Porous borders and lack of effective security measures

Economic Environment

The CAR’s economic capacity is severely limited, with no national implementation capacity. The customs system is unreliable, and businesses often seek tax exemptions through bribes.

No capacity to implement anti-money laundering measures
Foreign banks have detected instances of money laundering in the country

Victim and witness support is scarce in the CAR, with little evidence of policies or campaigns aimed at preventing organized crime. International NGOs have set up trauma centers and counseling services in conflict areas.

Weak civil society organizations focused on conflict-related issues rather than organized crimes
Corrupt media environment
Government has used bribes and intimidation to cover up reporting on corruption scandals

Conclusion

The Central African Republic’s insecurity crisis is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of corruption, criminality, and weak governance. Until these issues are addressed, the country will remain one of the most insecure in Africa.