Editor’s Note: This post was written by Enough Project intern Ben Rissler.
Central African Republic’s President, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, assumed office on March 30, 2016, vowing “to make CAR a united country, a country of peace, a country facing development.” During his inaugural reception in Bangui last week, United States Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power gave remarks on “Crafting Peace by the Way We Live Our Lives” to honor the newly inaugurated president. Ambassador Power noted the bravery and resilience of the citizens during times of violence, inspired by their persistence in participating in the electoral process to create a brighter future for the conflict-ridden nation. This was her fourth visit to the Central African Republic in the past year and a half, stating that the courage of the people gave her hope as they were “trying to put one foot in front of the other and survive, but also hopeful that one day they would be able to reconcile.” The ambassador said that the multiple trips have personally impacted her and her dedication to peacebuilding in the nation.
Ambassador Power’s remarks symbolize the prospect of enhanced relations between the United States and the Central African Republic. The election of President Touadéra signifies a “collective effort at achieving stability, security, dignity, and opportunity” that will turn on the people of the Central African Republic, according to Ambassador Power. She also recounted Pope Francis’ monumental visit to Bangui in November, referencing his remarks about the peace process being built one day at a time through the way individuals live their lives. Although the number of bright spots in the world today are limited, she points out that the democratic journey of the Central African Republic is a bright light that should reward the people of the country for their courage during times of darkness.
The continued support of the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations in the Central African Republic’s state-building process is also a bright light for its future, exemplifying the backing of many actors in the international community behind the development of the nation. “We now have to put our heads together. We have to prioritize among so many challenges. And we have to recognize that maybe the hardest part of all is what starts tomorrow morning.”
Read Ambassador Power’s remarks here.