Zuma sends troops to CAR

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma has authorised the deployment of 400 soldiers to the troubled Central African Republic, the presidency said yesterday.

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma has authorised the deployment of 400 soldiers to the troubled Central African Republic, the presidency said yesterday.

Spokesman Mac Maharaj said the SA National Defence Force troops would be deployed in CAR until March 31, 2018. They would assist with "planning and implementation of the disarmament, demobilisation and re integration processes", Maharaj said.

Weekend reports said rebels, who have been advancing on the capital, had captured two additional towns despite planned peace talks with the government. - Sapa, Staff reporter