- ATD Fourth World

Central African Republic

ATD Fourth World has been active in the Central African Republic since 1984, first in Markounda in the north of the country, and then in the capital, Bangui. In Bangui in 1988 we established the “Schoolyard of 100 Trades”, which enables young street dwellers to educate themselves, feel useful to others, and gradually rebuild their relationships with their families.

ATD Fourth World’s main areas of activity are:

• Knowledge – work – health. Activity in one district of Bangui since 2002 has foc ussed on the family: access to health (monitoring, prevention, raising awareness), knowledge-sharing activities (literacy, creative workshops, street library), and major community projects carried out in consultation with local authorities.
• Working with children. Friends of ATD Fourth World are heavily involved in work with children through the Tapori network. Hundreds of children have participated in an international campaign against prejudice. They have also campaigned to promote friendship between children, in schools, neighbourhoods and villages, especially in one particular village about 30km from Bangui.
• Uniting against poverty. Members of ATD Fourth World – including both those who are and those who are not living in poverty themselves – meet regularly to learn about our approach, develop their skills, and support one another. They take action together to make contact with the poorest people in various neighbourhoods, to gain their trust and support their participation in their communities.

The celebrations for the International Day of Families (15th May) and the World Day to Overcome Extreme Poverty (17th October) provide opportunities for creative activities and public education events organised by poor families and members of our organisation in association with local NGOs and officials.

• International Action

• Research and Studies

• Sharing Experiences Worldwide

• Memory and Knowledge.