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Essay / The CAR: Conflicts and conflicts in South Africa
The CAR is a region in the middle of Africa surrounded by the neighboring states of Chad, Congo, Sudan and Cameroon (Graf). The CAR, since its independence from France in 1960, has been an area of continuous rebellion and discord. With more than 60 ethnic groups, the country experiences constant conflict and political instability. In 2003, François Bozizé took power and became head of state and in 2005, he was elected president during the presidential elections. The result of these elections was not accepted by all parties and rebel groups constantly challenged his mandate (Graf). Due to the conflict and instability within the CAR and the need to restore peace and security in the country, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) has requested all its members to contribute to this restoration mission. South Africa, “in the name of African solidarity” (Zuma, 2013), responded to the AU's instructions and sent soldiers to the CAR. Their mission in CAR, known as Operation Vimbezela, was to help CAR build its military capacity by providing military training and renovating military bases. Consequently, the CAR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South African Government (Parliamentary Monitoring Group). The MoU served to recognize the relationship between South Africa and CAR, with their common goal of enhancing military development in the country. CAR in order to promote peace and stability in the country (Parliamentary monitoring group). The objectives to be achieved by South Africa were to develop a cooperative relationship between the Central African armed forces, to train military personnel, to provide military resources, to renovate bases, barracks and...... middle of paper......strengthen it. Their intentions were not simply personal gain, but rather sought to “build peace on the continent” (Zuma, 2013). When deciding to send soldiers to CAR, the interests of the African continent were taken into account as well as their own. They understood that due to the growing interdependence between states, unrest in one country could interfere with the affairs of their own country. Therefore, cooperation will bring mutual benefits to the states involved. Given the Memorandum of Understanding between South Africa and the CAR, it is clear that the relationship between the states was one of military cooperation in order to promote peace and stability in the CAR. The military force used enabled development and reconciliation in the CAR. This is what South African foreign policy represents (Parliamentary Monitoring Group).