Central African Republic: Forgotten heart of Africa

Central African Republic is in the heart of Africa. It has some of the highest densities of lowland gorillas and forest elephants in Africa, but despite this tourist potential and abundant water and mineral resources, it is one of the continent's least developed countries and one of the poorest in the region.

Central African Republic is one of Africa's poorest countries and the level of poverty has worsened especially for children since the failed coup in 2001. The incidence of HIV/AIDS has increased.  6.3% of the adult population is affected. In 2007, it was estimated that 72,000 children were orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, 26% of all orphans (source UNICEF).

SOS Children works in partnership with UNICEF to develop an awareness, education and prevention programme through its school and the Medical and Social centres in Bangui, reaching out to nearly 6,000 orphaned and vulnerable children and their families.

If you interested in helping the situation in the Central African Republic you might like to consider how to sponsor a child in the Central African Republic.