Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has called on the government of Central African Republic (CAR), rebels of the Seleka coalition and the anti-balaka militia to respect the neutrality of health facilities in the country.
Development Diaries reports that MSF made the call as attacks on patients, health staff and medical facilities in the country continue, forcing the suspension of medical activities.
The civil war began in the country in 2012 after the Seleka rebel group accused former President Francois Bozize’s administration of failing to abide by peace agreements.
According to the United Nations, the conflict has led to the destruction of infrastructures and government institutions, leaving millions without access to clean water, health care and food, with over 1.1 million Central Africans displaced.
MSF, in a recent statement, noted that it had to suspend medical activities in some areas on several occasions as a result of the conflict.
‘Being forced to suspend our activities only exacerbates people’s vulnerability and results in the avoidable deaths of young children and women with complications in pregnancy and childbirth, among others’, says MSF’s Deputy Programme Manager, Gisa Kohler.
The humanitarian organisation, also known as Doctors Without Borders, also noted that many of its health care facilities have been attacked.
‘The suspension and reduction of medical activities across numerous areas where we work are very concerning, particularly with the ongoing rainy season, when cases of malaria and other life-threatening diseases peak’, Kohler added.
MSF urged the government and all parties to the conflict to respect the neutrality of health facilities and to allow people access to medical and humanitarian assistance.
‘Now, more than ever, all parties to the conflict should reinforce respect for international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and medical facilities, transport and staff’, said MSF’s Head of Mission, Rhian Gastineau.
Source: MSF
Photo source: MSF