France sends 1,000 more soldiers in Central African Republic to secure the country 2711131.

The officials said French soldiers wouldn't be on the front line in the Central African Republic but would rather back up a multinational African force, which has already deployed some soldiers, and is expected to reach 3,600 soldiers by the end of the year.

In mid-December, the African Union will take over the responsibilities of protecting civilians and restoring the central government's authority.

The situation in the Central African Republic has been chaotic since March, when rebels overthrew President Francois Bozize. The transitional government has not been able to control the former rebels or keep Muslim and Christian groups from fighting each other.

Last week, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said the U.S. would, pending congressional approval, provide $40 million in logistical, nonlethal and training support to the multinational African force.

The Central African Republic has endured a long series of coups and rebellions since gaining independence from France in 1960.