UN Report: Sudan’s RSF uses CAR border town as strategic hub for recruitment and supplies

June 15, 2024 (NEW YORK) – A UN expert report has revealed that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), engaged in conflict with the Sudanese army, are utilizing the Am Dafok region on the border with the Central African Republic (CAR) as a key supply line and recruitment hub of new fighters for the RSF.

Am Dafok, a strategic town located on the border between the Central African Republic and Sudan in South Darfur, holds economic and commercial significance. The RSF gained control of the town in mid-June 2023.

The Panel of Experts on the Central African Republic, tasked with monitoring sanctions imposed on the country, expressed concern in a report published Friday about the significant impact of the Sudanese conflict.

The report highlights the recruitment of CAR-based fighters by the RSF, with groups like the Popular Front for the Renaissance of Central Africa (FPRC) actively participating in the Sudanese conflict. These complex dynamics pose a challenge for the CAR’s national armed forces (FACA), as the RSF simultaneously claims to support the CAR government while also collaborating with armed groups within the country.

Key figures like Habib Hareka, a prominent RSF member, have been identified as playing a crucial role in transborder activities, facilitating the recruitment and movement of fighters between CAR and Sudan.

The report identifies Am Dafok, Sam Ouandja, the Ndah mining site, and Haute-Kotto Prefecture (region) as primary recruitment areas, with fighters ultimately being sent to Nyala in Sudan.

The experts noted that the conflict in Sudan has caused an influx of armed actors to Vakaga Prefecture, particularly around Am Dafok, which is vital for RSF supplies and recruitment. Despite the presence of major armed groups like UPC and FPRC, there’s been no infighting due to a “no-harm policy” and opportunistic collaboration. This cooperation could bolster their power, worsen regional security, and threaten the CAR government.

The UN experts’ report paints a concerning picture of the spillover effects of the Sudanese conflict on the CAR, with increased insecurity, armed group activity, and recruitment posing significant challenges to the stability and security of the region.

They urged Central African authorities to “stem the flow of weapons from neighbouring countries, fueled by the ongoing conflict in Sudan.” They further called to “address the influx of foreign fighters, posing a grave and enduring threat to regional stability.”