Locations
Press Conference in Bangui, CAR
UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Crisis Bureau Director Shoko Noda delivers remarks at a press conference in Bangui, Central African Republic
MINUSCA Photo
Bangui, March 21, 2024- Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a great pleasure to be here in Bangui with you today.
I am honored to co-chair the United Nations Development Programme-UN Department of Peace Operations partnership alongside my colleague, UN Assistant Secretary-General Alexandre Zouev.
This week, we conducted a week-long mission in the Central African Republic to assess UN support in the areas of justice, security, and the rule of law and to engage in high-level dialogue with national authorities.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, His Excellency Prime Minister Félix Moloua, and all members of the government for their strong commitment and partnership.
The Central African Republic remains a key priority for UNDP—not only because of its immense potential but also because of the remarkable progress achieved.
UNDP is fully committed to supporting the Central African government on its path to sustainable development by providing technical and financial assistance for essential reforms and the restoration of state authority.
Furthermore, together with MINUSCA, we contribute to strengthening the rule of law and peace.
In this regard, I would like to congratulate the government on the launch of the National Development Plan (PND) 2024-2028— a decisive step in transitioning from humanitarian aid to inclusive and sustainable development.
The strong partnership between the government, UNDP, and MINUSCA, particularly within the framework of the stabilization programme, serves as a powerful lever for achieving the objectives of the PND. In collaboration with peacekeeping forces and state security forces, this programme helps translate security gains into lasting peace and supports local communities in rebuilding their lives.
Another major milestone this year is the upcoming local elections, which will play a crucial role in promoting inclusive political participation, strengthening state authority, and advancing local development.
The full participation of women in these elections is essential to ensuring representative and equitable governance, fostering social cohesion, strengthening institutional legitimacy, and benefiting society as a whole.
UNDP is proud to support this process through the Electoral Support Fund, which has already mobilized over $7 million. We remain committed to this historic step toward peace and democracy.
Despite past crises that have severely impacted the justice and security sectors, significant progress has been made in judicial proceedings, improving the penitentiary system, and redeploying security forces across the country.
One of the most significant achievements in this area is the Special Criminal Court (SCC). By prosecuting serious crimes within the national judicial system, with international support, the SCC is playing a fundamental role in combating impunity and restoring state authority in CAR.
In a short period, the SCC has achieved impressive results. Following its first verdict in the Paoua case, more than 40 victims have received reparations, and three individuals have been convicted of crimes against humanity.
While these achievements are significant, they require continued support. Consolidating progress in the rule of law, security, and governance demands sustained political, financial, and technical backing. Without this, we risk losing the gains made in recent years.
We must all seek innovative solutions to strengthen our support for local communities and the Central African government.
Once again, I thank you for your attention. Singila Mingui!
