In 1962, Am Dafok had a population of 338 people.[5] Following the independence of South Sudan in 2011, the road that passes through Am Dafok became the only remaining CAR–Sudan border crossing.
Armed Misseriya elements have a strong presence in Am Dafok. According to a 2021 report from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Misseriya forces engage in illegal taxation in Am Dafok.[8] On 3 February 2021, Misseriya forces attacked a humanitarian convoy in Am Dafok.[8] Around that time, a MINUSCA field mission found Misseriya forces had grown their control along the border with Sudan.[8] Near to Am Dafok, and close to the Sudanese border, armed Misseriya elements attacked a patrol by the national defence forces on 16 April.[8] The attack, in nearby Am-Sissia, killed three people and injured four others.[8] On 12 May, soldiers from the national defense forces stationed in Am Dafok left for Birao, following persistent threats from local militias.[8] That evening, their convoy was ambushed in an attack that injured two people.[8] A UNSC presumed the attack was conducted by armed Misseriya elements near Dongore.[8]
In the weeks following the outbreak of the 2023 Sudan conflict, nearly 10,000 people fled from Sudan into Am Dafok.[3]
