After a long period marked by violence and insecurity, the town of Zémio, located in the Haut-Mbomou prefecture of the Central African Republic (CAR), is gradually returning to calm. Civic and economic activities are tentatively resuming, prompting local officials to issue urgent appeals to the thousands of refugees who have sought refuge in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to return.

René Ghislain Bolamba, sub-prefect of Zémio, confirmed the significant improvement in the security situation, the result of effective collaboration between the national defense and security forces and their international allies. "We urge our compatriots who have taken refuge in Zapaï and other areas of the DRC to return home. Stability is gradually returning, and their presence is crucial for the reconstruction of our city," he stressed.

Since 2021, Zémio has been the scene of fierce clashes between armed factions, causing the exodus of entire families to neighboring countries. Vital infrastructure (schools, health centers, markets) has suffered significant damage, paralyzing the entire local socio-economic life.

Today, the time has come for a revival. Markets are reopening, farmers are returning to their fields, and some humanitarian organizations are resuming their assistance programs. However, there is still a long way to go.

Major challenges remain, including the reconstruction of destroyed buildings, the restoration of essential public services and the integration of displaced people.

For the authorities, the return of refugee populations constitutes a fundamental driving force for the revitalization of the community.

"Rebuilding Zémio requires the participation of all its residents. Everyone must contribute to this effort of renewal," insists Sub-Prefect Bolamba. Residents who remain express hope that this emerging peace will be lasting. They advocate for the consolidation of security measures and the continuation of humanitarian aid so that Zémio can definitively close the chapter on years of crisis.