Families forced into a deadly spiral in Central African Republic

Renewed violence across the CAR following December elections has led to a growing humanitarian crisis.

Siriri’s gaze darts around and his voice trembles as he speaks about his experiences, how he was shot in the throat and traumatised. Out of seven of his friends recruited by armed groups, only two came back. He wants to remain anonymous and has chosen this name, which means “peace” in the Sango dialect. He was recruited before the general elections in the Central African Republic in December, when conflicts escalated between a new coalition of armed groups and government forces in several parts of the country. The high number of cases of child recruitment is one of the most adverse effects of the worsening humanitarian crisis in the country. Like many, Siriri was promised a future where he could eat his fill.