Residents of Tanga, Tanzania, gathered with U.S. service members assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), June 11, 2009 to dedicate the newly-renovated Mafurko Clinic.

The $59,000 renovation project was funded by CJTF-HOA. It included the rehabilitation of seven existing rooms in the clinic, and construction of a two-room addition. The project also included the rehabilitation of an existing latrine, the installation of a medical incinerator and the construction of a perimeter wall.

"This restoration project is one step toward a better life," said U.S. Army Colonel Lorrie Oldham, of CJTF-HOA's Surgeon Cell. "This clinic will provide medical support for the region for years to come."

The Mafurko Clinic serves more than 11,000 citizens throughout Tanzania's Pongwe Ward. The remodeled and enlarged clinic will facilitate improved health care in the area and help to promote regional stability in Tanzania, according to Oldham.

"Thanks to all those who made this project a reality," said Dr. Tuli Mushingi, Charge d' Affaires for the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania. "Now, thousands of members of the community have easier access to quality care."

This design-build project was completed in four months by the Hamcom Company, a local construction contractor.

"The building alone will not make that access to quality care easier," said Mushingi. "I applaud the dedication of the doctors, nurses and clinic staff who serve the people of this community. The people of Mafuriko are in good hands."

The clinic is one of several contracted construction projects that CJTF-HOA civil affairs teams have supported in the region. CJTF-HOA teams work hand-in-hand with local government officials to help communities in 13 countries throughout the Horn of Africa. The mission of the task force is one of promoting regional stability through defense, diplomacy and development; a 3-D concept intended to counter violent extremism through increased stability.

"Together in partnership, Americans and Tanzanians have bettered the life of this community," said Mushingi. "Our shared achievement brings our two countries, and our peoples, even closer together."