Birao is the capital of Vakaga, one of the 14 prefectures of the Central African Republic and was an administrative post in the colony of Ubangui-Shari. In March 2007, the town was almost completely burnt down in the fighting between rebels and government troops in the area. As of December 1, 2010, Birao was controlled by the army of Chad, on behalf of the government of the Central African Republic.