2008 Press Releases

U.S. Navy hands over Water Well in Garissa District

February 13, 2008

The United States Navy Seabee team in Shant Abak, Garissa District, officially transferred responsibility of a vital water well to the community on Friday, January 8, 2008.  The opening of the well completes several months of work by the Seabees, who are based at Camp Lemonier, Djibouti.  This well, which can produce 25 gallons of water per minute, is one of two being drilled in the village.  The second is expected to begin operation as soon as required material and equipment arrive. 

The well was gratefully received by the local community.  Sheikh Hassan Amey, chairman of Garissa Council of Imams, spoke for the people of Shant Abak: “Speaking for the Islamic leaders in this region, I thank the American Government for the good work we are seeing here today. We have always known the American Government as a war government but we need to change that perception in light of these good works they are doing."

District Officer of Shant Abak, Thomas Bett, added, “This ceremony to hand over this well today is very important, and has been constructed by USA for the community of Shant Abak.  I wish to say that this is a great opportunity today as you can all see."