Rafaï[3] is a town and sub-prefecture on the Chinko River, in the Central African Republic prefecture of Mbomou. Its estimated population is about 14,000 people.
Rafaï | |
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![]() Aerial view of Rafaï | |
Coordinates: 4°58′23″N 23°55′55″E | |
Country | Central African Republic |
Prefecture | Mbomou |
Government | |
• Sub-Prefect | Simon-Pierre Gbake[1] |
• Mayor | Marcel Kogoro[2] |
Population | |
• Total | 14,000 |
History
The Sultanate of Rafaï was the last of Ubangi-Shari to still have its sultan.[4] The last sultan assumed the throne in 1909.[4] On 12 March 2013 Rafaï was captured by Seleka rebels.[5] On 3 March 2018 it was captured by UPC rebels, but three days later it was recaptured by Anti-balaka.[6] On 26 March 2021 it was reported that 14 rebels with automatic weapons were stationed near centre of Rafaï.[7] On 30 October armed forces returned to Rafai after eight years of absence.[8]
Transport
Rafaï has a small civilian airport with a 4,249 foot unpaved runway.