The Central African Republic (CAR) has suffered from a complex humanitarian crisis since a protection crisis erupted at the end of 2013. Continued displacement and violence have had serious humanitarian consequences for civilians.

The ETC was activated in CAR in December 2013 in response to the crisis to provide emergency telecommunications support for humanitarian responders. The cluster was led by WFP.

By July 2021, the ETC had expanded its internet connectivity and security communications services for humanitarians across 13 sites in CAR―Alindao, Bangassou, Bambari, Bangui, Batangafo, Birao, Bossangoa, Bouar, Bria, Kaga Bandoro, N’Dele, Paoua, and Zemio.

Responding to the communications needs of displaced communities in CAR, the ETC rolled out services for communities from 2021―Common Feedback Mechanism (CFM), phone booth, and a charging station in Bria, and a Learning Centre and cybercafé in Bangassou.

During the decade-long ETC response in CAR, the cluster was supported by critical funding and in-kind contributions from Global ETC partners Ericsson Response, the Government of Luxembourg, Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), and NetHope. The cluster also worked closely with local actors including Action Contre la Faim (ACF), Central African Red Cross, Intersos, IOM, the Ministry of Health, OCHA, UNDSS, UNHCR, UNICEF, and WFP to implement services.

A mission was conducted in July 2023 to oversee the transition, handover, and closure of ETC services in CAR due to a revision of needs and ongoing lack of funding. All activities and services are handed over to local actors.