Following years of persistent insecurity and conflict, youth in the Central African Republic continue to feel disconnected from the national peacebuilding process. Peacebuilding initiatives will have more resonance and success at a local and national level if youth have improved prospects and are engaged in their development. Market-based economic empowerment interventions and access to improved psychosocial coping skills will enhance social cohesion and opportunities for youth at community level as an alternative to violence, whilst complementary activities on peacebuilding, mediation and youth-led advocacy will ensure the meaningful engagement of youth in local, prefectural and national peacebuilding processes.