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(left to right) U.S. Army Col. William Porter, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa; the Honorable Marguerita Ragsdale, U.S. Ambassador to Djibouti; Mr. Abdullah Abdillahi Miguil, Djibouti Minister of Health; and Ms. Janet Schulman, U.S. Agency for International Development lead the ribbon-cutting May 4, 2006, at the dedication ceremony for the newly-remodeled Mouloud Clinic in Dikhil, Djibouti. Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa photo |
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DIKHIL, Djibouti, May 9, 2006 — Cooperation between the government of Djibouti and the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa has resulted in a refurbished facility here that will help improve health care opportunities for the local community.
“This clinic is more than mortar and paint; it represents the relationship between [Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa] and Djibouti. (We) are partners for peace, prosperity, security and a better way of life.”
U.S. Army Col. William Porter |
During a dedication ceremony May 4 for the Mouloud Clinic, representatives from Djibouti and the joint task force spoke about what the clinic represents.
“This clinic is more than mortar and paint; it represents the relationship between [Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa] and Djibouti,” said U.S. Army Col. William Porter. “(We) are partners for peace, prosperity, security and a better way of life.”
Speaking to a crowd of families, community leaders and dignitaries, Porter relayed a vision for the future.
“Quality medical care equals longer life for you and your children,” he said. “Healthy children and citizens are vital to the future prosperity of your community.”
Working together, the joint task force and local contractors and laborers constructed a maternity ward, waiting rooms and a storage facility at the Mouloud Clinic. They also renovated the existing clinic, repairing windows, doors, interior spaces and sidewalks. The project cost approximately $95,000, which included demolishing a wall and fence and building a new one that surrounds the clinic.
“Taking care of (this clinic) and preserving it is a big responsibility,” Porter said. “We honor the community, doctors, nurses and staff with this task.”
The reception provided by the community for the men and women of the joint task force was first-class, Porter said. “Thank you for allowing us to help and work with you on this noble task.”
Source: Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, May 10, 2006 | 
