Bouar

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive photo: SOS Children’s Villages in the Central African Republic).

Bouar is a city in the western part of the Central African Republic and the capital of the Nana-Mamberé prefecture. It is lcated close to the border to Cameroon and has a population of around 30,000 people. The region has been repeatedly affected by rebel attacks and Bouar has received a great number of displaced people from the north of the country. This has led to very difficult circumstances, especially for children. Poverty, malnutrition and a lack of education are common. Many basic services are often not available.

Since 2008, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Bouar.

62%
Of people aged 15-24 don’t know how to read and write

Low literacy rates

As a result of the ongoing conflict in the Central African Republic, the educational system has suffered. Schools have closed, teachers are scarce and literacy rates are very low. The educational system in the Central African Republic is lacking infrastructure, funding and supplies. Furthermore many students are displaced by the conflict which negatively impacts their access to education. 24% of municipalities do not have primary schools at all and 45% of children enrolled in school did not complete their education.

90%
Of children suffer from violence by caregivers

Physical and pyschological abuse

Physical punishment of children is still lawful in the Central African Republic. Violent discipline at home is the most common form of violence against children. This can be especially harmful at a young age, because there is an increased risk of physical injuries. Children often can’t understand the reasons behind the abuse and adopt coping strategies which can be harmful. Physical and psychological aggression often happen at the same time. The consequences of violent discipline range from immediate effects to long-term damage that affect children through their childhood and into adulthood.

Your support makes a difference for children in Bouar

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
300
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
360
Children
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
110
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Brothers and sisters in our care grow up together, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Central African Republic).

How your support helps in Bouar

Strenghtening vulnerable families and communities
Families at risk can access the support they need. It can include counselling and medical care, as well as education. We also run training on income generation and workshops on parenting and children`s rights. In Khartoum, families have access to support with tuition fees and school supplies, small business grants and health insurance.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.