Islamic Relief and other faith-based organisations have welcomed Pope Francis to the Central African Republic.
Islamic Relief has been responding to the crisis in Central African Republic since early 2014, and, as the country approaches two years of conflict, eight humanitarian organisations have written a letter to Pope Francis to express their gratitude for making such an important visit for peace.
The statement was written by Aegis, Catholic Relief Services, Cordaid, Jesuit Refugee Service, Finn Church Aid, the Lutheran World Federation, World Vision, and Islamic Relief.
Part of the statement reads: “This trip demonstrates your desire as a respected leader to bring the attention of the world to those who are suffering. In spite of the recent security concerns and upsurge of violence which has taken hundreds of lives and left thousands newly displaced, your presence in the country demonstrates even more your commitment to peace.”
According to UNHCR, 25 per cent of CAR’s population has been internally displaced through the conflict, and there are more than 1 million people who of “of concern” and in need of humanitarian assistance.
Islamic Relief’s work in Central African Republic includes emergency psychosocial support and education for internally-displaced children, urgent food for those fleeing their homes and restoring community assets in conflict-affected areas.