Central African Republic prepares for December 1st parade
Students in Bimbo practiced marching drills for the national day celebration on December 1, 2026.
Preparations for the December 1, 2026, national day parade are underway in the Central African Republic, with students in Bimbo, near Bangui, participating in marching practice sessions. The event commemorates the country's transition from Oubangui-Chari to the Central African Republic. Public and private schools mobilized students for the second preparatory session on Thursday, November 5.
Students, dressed in their school colours, marched to the rhythm of instruments. An educator from M'Poko Bac school, Brice Ngaïté, noted the good atmosphere but acknowledged the challenges in the early stages of preparation. Spectators observed some students struggling to maintain the marching rhythm, leading to a less harmonious display than in previous years, according to François Nglomoudé.
Despite the efforts of instructors, some students did not follow the marching cadence, prompting comments from attendees. Nglomoudé suggested that teachers need to demonstrate the correct marching rhythm. The preparations continue as the December 1st celebration approaches, with environmental beautification efforts yet to begin in Bimbo and its surrounding areas.
Why it mattersStudents and the general population are involved in preparing for a national day parade.