The airstrip will not only facilitate passenger transport but also the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The town of Mboki, located in the southeast of the Central African Republic, has reached an important milestone in its development. After several months of work, a new airstrip—built and financed by MINUSCA in close collaboration with the Central African aviation authorities—has been fully operational since April 2025. This strategic infrastructure will enhance operational mobility and facilitate humanitarian access to the region.
Measuring 1,750 meters in length and reinforced to accommodate C-130 cargo planes capable of carrying up to 12 tons, the airstrip was constructed in accordance with international safety standards.
“The work has been done well—so far, it’s very well done. The standards have been respected properly. Technically, we should have done this ourselves, but since we weren’t able to, MINUSCA helped us carry out this task. It’s very important work, and we’re satisfied,” said Arsène Ngadna Ludare, Airport Inspector.
The airstrip will not only make passenger transport easier but will also facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. It will play a crucial role in MINUSCA’s efforts to ensure security in the area.
“The location of this airstrip reflects its significance. In fact, this airstrip is relatively isolated in the southeastern region of the Central African Republic. It is the only airstrip usable by our C-130 aircraft. So it will play a very important role in supporting MINUSCA’s logistical operations and in ensuring security in this region,” said Lieutenant Colonel Rammeh Hamza, MINUSCA Flight Commander.
For local authorities and the population, this development represents a new opportunity for employment and economic growth in the town.
“It’s a relief for the youth because people have found jobs, and large aircraft will now land on our airstrip. So I thank the President of the Republic, the Head of State, for authorizing the extension of the airfield, and also MINUSCA for its financial support,” said Christian Kadayombo, Sub-Prefect of Mboki.
Oumar Ibrahim, a trader in Mboki, also expressed his satisfaction: “We, the traders, are happy about the expansion of this airstrip because it will make it easier for us to bring in goods. This is a path toward development, because it’s very difficult to transport goods by road due to poor conditions and insecurity.”
The operationalization of the Mboki airstrip by MINUSCA marks a major turning point for the locality. This essential infrastructure now facilitates access to vulnerable populations, thereby strengthening the capacity to respond to their urgent needs.
