Djibouti(Mogadishu24)- The U.S. Department of Defense, through its Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Europe Africa Central, has awarded a $25 million construction contract to five Djiboutian companies as part of its “Africa First” initiative. This initiative is a concerted effort by the U.S. to boost economic growth and stability in Djibouti by prioritizing local businesses in its overseas contracts.

The contract aims to improve infrastructure at Camp Lemonnier and other U.S. Defense installations within Djibouti. The engagement, which commenced in early April, underscores the long-standing partnership between the United States and Djibouti, which began over two decades ago and continues to be a cornerstone of regional security and economic interaction.

U.S. Navy Capt. Eilis Cancel, commanding officer at Camp Lemonnier, highlighted the positive impact of this partnership on the local economy and regional security. The contract involves a five-year commitment without extensions, ensuring a continuous inflow of financial investment and job creation in Djibouti.

The awarded companies—Prime Projects International, Cosmezz S.A.R.L., Mapi Construction S.A.R.L., SpendSmart Group, and Tremco, LLC—will be tasked with a variety of projects, including upgrading water purification systems and constructing new facilities.

This move is facilitated by the “Africa First” legislation under the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act, which allows the Department of Defense to provide procurement preferences to local companies, thereby fostering local business growth and enhancing community economic development.