Livestock farming is a pillar of the Central African Republic's economy and vital for its food security. In parts of the country, in particular rural areas, food insecurity and unemployment impact a large part of the population, especially women and young people. For young people, this instability is often a contributing factor in their joining armed groups.

To address this, UNOPS is working with the government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on the Livestock and Youth Support Project (le Projet Élevage et Appui aux Jeunes).

With $1.3 million in funding from IFAD, UNOPS procured and delivered vehicles, electrical and IT equipment, and office supplies on behalf of the Ministry of Livestock and Animal Health, as part of the government-implemented project.

"Every motorcycle delivered represents a state agent now able to reach an isolated village to save a family’s herd. Every vehicle extends the Ministry's capacity to govern, ensuring public policies turn into concrete results in the provinces," said Frederic Fanou.

The project is improving the livelihoods of people living in rural areas of the Central African Republic by strengthening production and productivity in the livestock and beekeeping sectors. This is, in turn, supporting economic and climate resilience and increasing food security.

"The handover of rolling stock under the Youth Employment and Development Programme to the Ministry of Livestock and Animal Health is a concrete action that reflects our commitment to supporting young people and livestock farmers," said Diane Menville, Associate Vice-President of the Financial Operations Department and Chief Financial Officer at IFAD. "By empowering them, we contribute to their economic empowerment and to building a better future for them and their communities."