Peacekeepers in the Central African Republic say they have recaptured the key town of Sibut from rebel fighters, while their mission received pledges of $US132 million ($A150.72 million) from African countries.
The commander of the African Union force (MISCA) told state radio his troops had taken control of the town from former members of the mainly Muslim Seleka rebellion, leaders of a March 2013 coup that plunged the country in chaos.
"As I speak, MISCA has taken control of the town of Sibut," said General Tumenta Chomud.
"A Gabonese contingent from MISCA is in place in the town. It is clear that the Seleka fighters can be contained and they will be disarmed."
The announcement came two days after former Seleka fighters captured Sibut, which links the capital Bangui with the north of the country, forcing hundreds of terrified residents to flee into the bush.
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The taking of the northern town was the latest challenge faced by peacekeepers struggling to maintain order in a country the size of France with a long history of coups, attempted coups and army mutinies.
About 5500 MISCA peacekeepers are supported by a French contingent of about 1600 troops. The European Union has committed a further 500 troops.
However, the interior of the country is a lawless zone ruled by warlords, with few or no foreign troops present, and newly elected transitional President Catherine Samba-Panza has said more troops are needed.
On Saturday, UN Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson appealed to African leaders meeting in Addis Ababa to "provide MISCA with the support required".
"We will be judged and measured by our efforts to protect the people of the Central African Republic," he said.
"We must not let them down ... we must not fail to prevent another huge tragedy in Africa."
A total of almost $US315 million has now been raised or pledged for Central African Republic, African Union officials said, with $US132 million of that amount being new pledges made at Saturday's conference.
Some of the money includes $US34 million pledged Friday by the European Union.
