CAR rebels 'to lay down weapons'

Some people have fled their homes to live in the forest

Rebels in the Central African Republic have signed a deal to end the conflict, an army general says.

"We believe that peace has finally taken root," said Gen Raymond Ndougou, who signed for the government.

The UFDR rebels have reportedly agreed to disarm and for their fighters to join the national army but other rebels remain active in the remote north-east.

President Francois Bozize had flown to the rebel base in the north-eastern town of Birao for the ceremony.

CAR has accused neighbouring Sudan of backing the rebels, with attacks launched from Darfur. Sudan has denied the allegations.

France recently reinforced its troops in the country to help the government counter the rebellion and to help secure the borders with Chad and Sudan.

"The time has come to make peace and work together for the reconstruction of our country," said UFDR military chief Damane Zakaria told the BBC.

A draft agreement says the UFDR will be recognised as a political party and will help manage the country.

A law will be passed extending amnesty to former rebel fighters.

More than 280,000 people have fled their homes in the past year - tens of thousands more have sought refuge across the border in Chad and Cameroon.

Last month, the UN reported that 90% of the population of Birao had fled the fighting - just 600 people remained.