Task Force Associator Replaces Task Force Paxton as East Africa’s Newest Security Forces Unit
10/25/2024
CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti – The Pennsylvania National Guard’s Task Force Associator was officially given responsibility for the security mission in East Africa from Task Force Paxton, another Pennsylvania National Guard Unit, during a transfer of authority ceremony Oct. 21, 2024.
CJTF-HOA Completes Largest Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise with Gabonese Defense and Security Forces in Libreville, Gabon
10/9/2024
U.S. Army soldiers from the East Africa Response Force participated in a significant Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise (EDRE) in Libreville, Gabon. Led by CJTF-HOA, the exercise involved over 150 personnel and various aircraft, enhancing crisis response readiness and military interoperability with Gabonese forces. The event validated U.S. crisis response capabilities, strengthened regional alliances, and fostered multinational collaboration, showcasing the U.S.'s commitment to regional stability, capacity building, and addressing global security challenges.
In a demonstration of U.S. commitment to regional stability and security, key leaders from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) visited Camp Lemonnier to engage with U.S. troops deployed in Africa.
CJTF-HOA Command Senior Enlisted Leader Change of Responsibility
10/9/2024
Service members deployed to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) welcomed their new Command Senior Enlisted Leader during a change of responsibility ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Oct. 8, 2024.
Empowering Our Troops: A Recruiter's Mission to Support Every Soldier
6/10/2024
Recruiters play a pivotal role in shaping the future of any organization. Within the military, they are Retention Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs), and their influence extends beyond just filling ranks. Retention NCOs are the frontline ambassadors of the armed forces, responsible for identifying, enlisting, and reenlisting the next generation of service members. This is where retention NCOs like Task Force Paxton and Pennsylvania National Guard's SSG Lisa Marie Duffy come in.
Multinational Exercise Bull Shark 24-2 reinforces U.S. bonds with allies and partners
5/15/2024
The objective of exercise Bull Shark 24-2 was to strategize, simulate, and carry out various personnel recovery scenarios involving land, sea, and air units, while ensuring effective communication among all participants. These included multiple branches of the U.S. military, Spanish Navy, French Force, Armed Forces of Djibouti, Bataillon d’intervention rapide, Djiboutian Navy, and the Djiboutian Coast Guard.
CJTF-HOA works with U.S. Embassy in Burundi in exercise to maintain regional readiness
5/7/2024
The East Africa Response Force (EARF), comprised of members from Task Force Paxton under the direction of CJTF-HOA, conducted an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise (EDRE) on April 3, 2024, assessing their capacity to effectively deploy, reinforce, and subsequently support any potential needs of the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura, Burundi.
Change of Command at CJTF-HOA: A New Chapter Begins with General Cashman
5/3/2024
On Saturday, April 27, 2024, after nearly two years as commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, Maj. Gen. Jamelle Shawley transfers command to Brigadier General Brian T. Cashman. The ceremony, presided by US Marine Corps General Michael Langley, commander US Forces AFRICOM, was held at 11 Degrees North in Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
Impact Company Enhances Healthcare with Medical Supply Delivery
5/1/2024
Soldiers from Impact Company, 328th Forward Support Company, 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment belonging to Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard deliver medical equipment to Djibouti Adventist Health Center, April 7, 2024, Djibouti City, Djibouti.
The final approach: 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion embark on last deployment before deactivation
4/28/2024
After 37 years of providing airfield management and air traffic support at deployed locations throughout the world, the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion embarks on their final deployment with the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa. The unit will be dissolved upon completion of their tour as part of a U.S. Army reorganization plan.
Bringing the Heat during Medical Cold Load Training
4/9/2024
DJIBOUTI- U.S. Army combat medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard assembled on the tarmac to conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. Medics participated in casualty evacuation operations by working with flight medical personnel and aircraft crew-members in the event that life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested.
The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested.
CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations
4/9/2024
Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams.
218th MEB Transfers authority of CJTF-HOA mission to 204th MEB
4/8/2024
The 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard, transferred authority of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa headquarters staff mission to the 204th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Utah Army National Guard, on April 1, 2024, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
Task Force Paxton Replaces Task Force Tomahawk as East Africa’s Newest Security Forces Unit
2/19/2024
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa held a transfer of authority ceremony to welcome the incoming Task Force Paxton infantry unit as well as commemorate the service of Task Force Tomahawk, the outgoing Security Forces component.
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa members traveled out to villages in the country of Djibouti as a part of their ‘Herd Health Vaccination Engagement’ project which aims to assist local veterinarian personnel with the mass vaccination against the deadly goat plague and promote proper healthcare amongst herds across the nation.
Sigonella Blood Depot Trainer visits CJTF-HOA to Promote Mission Readiness
1/23/2024
A member of the blood depot section at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily, Italy, visited the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa medical logistics center to provide training on the blood deglycerolization process to personnel from CJTF-HOA, Camp Lemonnier EMF, and the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti.
Soldiers and Marines come together for Corporals Course
11/24/2023
The Corporals Course is a standard leadership training course for Marines new to the grade of E-4, the first tier in the non-commissioned officer (NCO) rank structure. While every Marine is expected to be able to lead, NCOs are expected to lead the junior enlisted while setting the standard of performance and behavior.
CJTF-HOA works with U.S. Embassy in Tanzania to maintain regional readiness
11/9/2023
On Oct. 10, 2023, CJTF-HOA performed an EDRE that tested their ability to successfully reach, augment and ultimately evacuate the U.S. Embassy Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in a simulated natural disaster situation.
Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa celebrates Partner Appreciation Day
11/9/2023
The Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and partners from Djibouti alongside seven other allied nations celebrated Partner Appreciation Day Nov. 8, 2023, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
Service members deployed to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) welcomed their new Command Senior Enlisted Leader during a change of responsibility ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Oct. 26, 2023.
CJTF-HOA Leads Desk Rejuvenation Project throughout Djibouti
11/2/2023
Civil Affairs and Engineering service members stationed in Djibouti have worked on strengthening relations with the local community through their Desk Rejuvenation Project. The project has led to delivery of hundreds of desks to students in the Horn of Africa.
2-130th AOB transfers responsibility of the airfield operations mission to the 3-58th
11/1/2023
The 2-130th Airfield Operations Battalion (AOB) of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa ended their mission as the task force's airfield operations battalion transferring authority to the 3-58th AOB. The 3-58th AOB aims to continue the mission and continue to build upon the foundations left by the 2-130th.
294th ESC transfers responsibility of engineering mission to 1782nd ESC
10/19/2023
The 294th Engineer Support Company (ESC) transferred authority of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) engineering mission to the 1782nd Engineer Support Company during a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Oct. 18, 2023.
CJTF - HOA Hosts Women, Peace, and Security Summit
9/29/2023
Service members from the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa met at the Sheraton Hotel Djibouti for the Women, Peace, and Security level 100 course. Through the course they focused on what it means to be a gender focal point within the ranks of the armed forces.
The Secretary of Defense visited members of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa and service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier to highlight the importance of the U.S. Department of Defense's focus on advancing partnerships and security on the African continent.
The 294th ESC provides construction and maintenance capabilities to outstations and remote locations across the continent, giving friendly forces a launching point wherever it may be needed.
CJTF-HOA Remembers 9/11, Service Members Share their Stories
9/12/2023
September 11, 2001 is a date that has lived in infamy in the minds of the American people for over 20 years now. Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa service members took the day to commemorate the lives lost during the terrorist attacks, reflect on where they were when the World Trade Center fell, and how their memory of the tragedy drives their service.
French Armed Forces join CJTF-HOA for casualty care
8/30/2023
Three U.S. Army combat medics led a team of five French Armed Forces members through the most current DOD TCCC training at Camp Lemonnier. Instructors coached the French troops through a wide range of medical competencies including recognizing shock, medicating the wounded, and treating minor and major wounds.
Sports Inspire Unity Amongst Foreign Partners for CJTF-HOA
8/25/2023
A primary function for the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa foreign liaison office is to build relationships and rapport with foreign partners. U.S. Army CPT Walker and U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Norris have used their love of sports to foster ties with Japanese Self-Defense Force members here in Djibouti.
SETAF-AF Civil Affairs Teams Up With CJTF-HOA To Promote Foreign Relations
8/21/2023
When formal training exercises are too far in between Civil Affairs personnel work on strengthening partner relations through casual hangouts and CJTF-HOA joint-force activities.
The Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa team consists of a diverse fusion of different teams all coming together to accomplish the same mission and each individual team member also brings their own diverse experiences and outlooks to the team.
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa held a combat patching ceremony for Soldiers with the 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Carolina National Guard, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, on Aug. 14, 2023.
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Katie Theusch, the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) Public Affairs productions noncommissioned officer in charge, and her brother, Master Sgt. Daniel Eggers, CJTF-HOA strategy and plans senior enlisted leader, are both deployed to Camp Lemonnier in support of the CJTF-HOA mission to promote defense, diplomacy, and development within the Horn of Africa.
157th MEB transfers authority of CJTF-HOA mission to 218th MEB
7/17/2023
The 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB), Wisconsin National Guard, transferred authority of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) headquarters staff mission to the 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Carolina National Guard, on July 14, 2023, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
Their responsibilities to CJTF-HOA include ensuring strategic partnerships with Djibouti and other partner nations, responding to crises, and enhancing stability and peace in the region by acting as a headquarters support unit to coordinate and facilitate mission accomplishment.
CJTF - HOA, Spanish forces, Djiboutian coast guard work together for exercise Bull Shark 23-2
6/14/2023
The Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) worked together with Djiboutian and Spanish forces for the biannual Bull Shark exercise at Camp Doraleh and near Arta Range to enhance multinational interoperability May 28 - June 4, 2023.
Virtual Tropical Medicine Course Unifies Allied, U.S. medical professionals
5/11/2023
The Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF - HOA) surgeon cell hosted its first virtual Military Tropical Medicine Course (MTMC) for allied and U.S. military medical professionals at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, May 2 - 4, 2023.
USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance hosts Joint Humanitarian Operations Course at CJTF-HOA
4/27/2023
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) hosted a Joint Humanitarian Operations Course (JHOC) at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, April 18-19.
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA)’s mission is to conduct operations to enhance partner nation capacity, promote regional stability, dissuade conflict, and protect U.S. and Partner interests. The CJ-32 Air Operations team is at the center of this being responsible for, among other things, coordinating all air support operations across the east African area of responsibility.
319th ESC transfers responsibility of engineering mission to 294th ESC
4/6/2023
The 319th Engineer Support Company (ESC) transferred authority of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) engineering mission to the 294th ESC during a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Feb. 18, 2023.
VMM-364 assumes authority of Marine tiltrotor mission from VMM-266
4/5/2023
Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 226 reinforced (VMM-226) transferred authority of the Marine tiltrotor mission to VMM-364 (REIN) during a ceremony on April 1 at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
15 Task Force Wolfhound Soldiers naturalized at US Embassy in Djibouti
3/18/2023
U.S. Army Soldiers from the New York National Guard’s 27th Infantry Brigade Combat, who serve as Task Force Wolfhound while deployed to the Horn of Africa, became U.S. citizens in a naturalization ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti City, Djibouti, March 10.
1-58th AOB transfers air operations mission to 2-130th AOB
3/17/2023
The 1st Battalion, 58th Aviation, Airfield Operations Battalion (AOB), transferred authority of the air operations mission to 2nd Battalion, 130th Aviation (AOB) during a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Feb. 20, 2023.
U.S. Service Members deployed to Horn of Africa complete grueling French Desert Commando Course
2/28/2023
Thirty-one U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers and one U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) earned the prestigious French Desert Commando Badge after completing the arduous French Desert Commando Course (FDCC) in Djibouti, Africa, Feb. 3.
Military deployments can be stressful. Military deployments to a remote base in East Africa can be even more stressful. Fortunately, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Timothy Harford, first sergeant for the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron located at Manda Bay, Kenya is there to assist his Airmen and tenant units and provide them with the resources needed to accomplish their mission.
CJTF-HOA conducts first simulated joint FARP demonstration on African continent
2/28/2023
Elements of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and the 449th Air Expeditionary Group recently conducted a simulated joint branch Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) exercise. Not only was this a first for U.S. forces in the African continent, but it also provided an opportunity to practice Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concepts as well.
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) held a combat patching ceremony for Soldiers with the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, on Dec. 30, 2022.
New York Army National Guard unit hosts Norwegian Foot March in Horn of Africa
1/7/2023
Service members assigned to Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and multinational partners participated in a Norwegian Foot March at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Dec. 16, 2022.
404th MEB transfers responsibility of CJTF-HOA mission to 157th MEB
11/14/2022
The Illinois Army National Guard’s 404th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) transferred responsibility of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) headquarters staff mission to the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 157th MEB on Nov. 5, 2022, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
CJTF-HOA commanding general joins her Kenyan partners, U.S. service members for Norwegian Foot March
10/17/2022
For the first time, our Kenyan partners and U.S. service members assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) came together to participate in the Cooperative Security Location-Manda Bay Kenya Norwegian Foot March, near Camp Simba, Kenya, July 23, 2022.
CJTF-HOA, partners build school library in Djibouti
10/13/2022
Members of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), the United States Embassy Djibouti, and international partners and allies celebrated the opening of a Library at the Balbala 7 School, Djibouti, Oct. 4, 2022.
Be There: A service member’s journey overcoming suicide
9/29/2022
Although it is near the end of September, Suicide Prevention Month, it is important to keep awareness strong about suicide and to be there for fellow service members, family and friends throughout the year.
The following transcription is an interview with Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) public affairs directorate and a Soldier who survived a suicide attempt and who is now supporting the CJTF-HOA mission.
Task Force Red Dragon conducts live-fire exercise with French Forces in Djibouti
9/9/2022
Task Force Red Dragon, assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), conducted a Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise (CALFEX) with French Forces in Djibouti near Arta, Djibouti, Aug. 22, 2022.
Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Public Affairs Directorates conducted a knowledge exchange from Aug. 29-31, 2022, with Djib-Live TV, RTD: Téĺé Djibouti, Agence Djiboutienne d'Information - ADI, and Journal La Nation, in coordination with U.S. Embassy Djibouti and Ministère de la Communication, chargé des Postes et des Télécommunications.
U.S. donates 24 armored vehicles to support allied troops in Somalia
8/17/2022
Mogadishu, Somalia - U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jami Shawley, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), visited foreign partners in Mogadishu, Somalia, Aug. 3, 2022, to hand over 24 Armored Personnel Carriers (APC) to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) at the ATMIS Headquarters.
Civil Affairs veterinarian participates in Exercise Shared Accord 22' in South Africa
8/12/2022
More than 75% of people in Africa rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Most of this is made up of livestock such as chickens, cattle, goats, sheep, camels and donkeys.
Without proper medical care, many of these animals will suffer from treatable diseases. The same can be said for domestic animals such as dogs and cats. For military veterinarians in Africa, part of their mission is to assist the local populace with the health of their animals and protect the public health from diseases that can be transmitted to humans.
U.S. Army Maj. Sage Umphries, a veterinarian assigned to the 353rd Civil Affairs Functional Specialty Team, stationed at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, recently participated in Exercise Shared Accord 2022, a joint and bilateral training exercise that took place in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province July 11-27, 2022.
U.S. service members take part in joint-force marksmanship competition in Kenya
8/5/2022
CAMP SIMBA, Kenya – U.S. service members from the U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Air Force, assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), participated in a joint-force combined arms marksmanship competition July 20-25, 2022, at Camp Simba, Kenya.
The event hosted 52 participants with individual and team competitions using multiple weapon systems.
The matches simulated combat scenarios with competitors engaging targets from multiple distances and positions, with target transitioning, weapon manipulation, while combining all of those skills under the stress of time and accuracy.
On Wednesday, May 25th, 1st squad, 1st platoon, B Company, 1-116th Infantry Regiment, Task Force Red Dragon, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) were conducting an area security patrol outside of Camp Simba, in Manda Bay, Kenya. They responded to an automobile accident during the course of their patrol where they freed victims from an overturned vehicle and provided medical aid to individuals involved in the accident.
Camp Lemonnier Expeditionary Medical Facility partners with Civil Affairs to conduct Knowledge Exchange with Djiboutian nurses
7/30/2022
Members of Camp Lemonnier’s Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF) collaborated with members of the 403rd Civil Affairs Battalion, assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), to conduct a knowledge exchange event at the Dar El Hanan Hospital in Djibouti City, Djibouti, from June 30 to July 21, 2022.
Airfield Operations Battalion transfers authority in East Africa
6/17/2022
Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 107th Aviation Regiment, Airfield Operations Battalion (AOB), transferred authority of the air operations here to the 1st Battalion, 58th AOB June 15, 2022.
The AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management functions at airfields throughout East Africa in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jami Shawley, commander of the CJTF-HOA, presided over the ceremony.
712th Engineer Support Company transfer authority in Horn of Africa
6/16/2022
The 712th Engineer Support Company (ESC), from South Carolina, transferred responsibility of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) engineering mission to the 319th Engineer Support Company, from Texas, during a ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, June 14, 2022. The engineering company works on a variety of construction projects with partner nations throughout CJTF-HOA’s area of interest.
Task Force Red Dragon hosts D-Day remembrance ceremony in the Horn of Africa
6/6/2022
U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Task Force Red Dragon, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), hosted a D-Day commemoration ceremony and ruck march June 6, 2022, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, to remember the sacrifices of Allied forces during the storming of the Normandy beachhead during World War II.
Japan-U.S. conduct first-ever combat care knowledge exchange in Djibouti
6/3/2022
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) soldiers conducted a Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3) medical knowledge exchange with Task Force Red Dragon, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), for the first time at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, May 27, 2022.
US Military tracks, fights pathogens in East Africa
5/23/2022
COVID-19 reminded the world of the danger unknown pathogens can present to the world, as the disease swept across the globe, shutting down entire societies in the early days of the pandemic.
For many of us, pathogens are not a common consideration, or at least not at the microscopic level. There are however a select few people and organizations dedicated to identifying, observing, and analyzing this very topic.
Lt. Cmdr. Rebecca Pavlicek, U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No. – 3 (NAMRU-3) director of the microbiology laboratory at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, is one of those people.
Combined, joint task force in Africa welcomes first female commanding general
5/16/2022
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jami Shawley assumed command of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa from U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William Zana during a change of command ceremony May 14, 2022. Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) presided.
Department of State and Defense officials meet for 2022 East African Security Forum
5/13/2022
More than 50 US government interagency officials working in more than 10 countries throughout East Africa met together at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti for the 2022 East Africa Security Forum May 11, 2022. The forum provided a face-to-face platform for representatives with the U.S. State Department, Department of Defense, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and the National Security Council. The discussions ranged from overarching long-term strategy to specific security threats in the region.
US military, Djiboutians champion Women, Peace and Security at co-hosted event
5/10/2022
U.S. leadership with the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) co-hosted a Women, Peace and Security (WPS) workshop with the Djiboutian Ministry of Women and Family at the Palace Kempinski, Djibouti, May 8, 2022.
The participating parties, including members of the Djiboutian Ministry of Women and Family, CJTF-HOA, and U.S. Embassy Djibouti, used the venue to initiate an update to Djibouti’s WPS National Action Plan (NAP). The NAP serves as a binding document for integration of WPS principles, including how they will be prioritized and governed within Djibouti.
French Forces in Djibouti (FFDJ), alongside U.S. service members with Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and units from Camp Lemonnier, participated in the French-led Exercise WAKRI 22, March 13-15, 2022.
CJTF-HOA, Camp Lemonnier military engineers meet University of Djibouti faculty, students
3/1/2022
Seven U.S. military engineers from Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, Camp Lemonnier’s Public Works Department, and the 712th Engineer Support Company toured the University of Djibouti’s Faculty of Engineering, Feb. 9, 2022.
The team met with engineering faculty, including Adoulkader Ibrahim Idriss, the dean of the engineering school. During the tour, they discussed their educational and working experiences while also learning about the school curriculum and facilities.
CJTF – Horn of Africa transfers responsibility from one National Guard MEB to another
2/28/2022
Soldiers from the Nebraska Army National Guard’s 67th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) transferred responsibility of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) mission over to the Illinois Army National Guard’s 404th MEB, Feb. 26, 2022.
As a dynamic operational headquarters, CJTF-HOA ensures a strategic partnership with Djibouti, responds to crises, supports operations, protects U.S. lives and enables the countering of violent extremist organizations throughout East Africa in order to enhance stability and prosperity. CJTF-HOA works with partner nations, coalition forces and interagency and intergovernmental organizations to achieve a unified effort.
Djibouti, U.S. strengthen partnership through medical knowledge exchange
2/2/2022
More than 40 U.S. service members from Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and the Djiboutian Gendarmerie came together for a medical knowledge exchange of casualty care practices at the Gendarmerie compound in Djibouti City, Djibouti, Jan. 17- 20, 2022.
The exchange allowed both parties to share their medical practices and tactics, while strengthening bonds between the Gendarmerie and the CJTF-HOA service members.
From Iron Gray to Red Dragon: National Guard infantry units support East Africa mission
1/12/2022
U.S. Army National Guard battalion, 1-102nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain), Task Force Iron Gray, cased the unit's regimental colors to signify handing responsibility for the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa’s security forces mission over to the 1-116th Infantry Regiment, Task Force Red Dragon, during a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Jan. 8, 2022.
U.S. Army Soldiers with Task Force Iron Gray, Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), and the 404th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne), Civil Affairs East Africa, and U.S. Airmen with the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron, visited the school Nov. 2, 2021, to donate the supplies, repair the school’s water system, and engage with students.
U.S. Army hosts Joint Expeditionary Mountain Warfare Course in Djibouti
12/21/2021
Five U.S. Army Mountain Warfare School instructors with the Vermont Army National Guard travelled to Djibouti to teach a five-day Joint Expeditionary Mountain Warfare Course to service members from France’s 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment (5e RIAOM) at the Arta Range Complex, Dec. 12-16, 2021.
CJTF-HOA strengthens personnel recovery mission in East Africa
11/22/2021
The PRCC at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), conducts personnel recovery and casualty evacuation for U.S. and joint partners in East Africa.
To test their response time and demonstrate their capabilities, the PRCC conducted a full casualty evacuation exercise from start to finish. More importantly, the exercise served to examine their system for deficiencies.
U.S., Kenya forces enhance partnership through integrated training
11/3/2021
For several months, U.S. Army Soldiers from Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), have trained alongside Kenya Defence Forces to improve Soldier skills while building partner capacity necessary to counter violent extremists and address other security and stability threats in the region.
U.S. Discussion Groups strengthen English language skills in Djibouti
10/15/2021
After three months of guided conversation, 25 participants completed the latest U.S.-led English Discussion Group (EDG), and attended a culmination celebration at the National Institute of Public Administration training center in Djibouti, Oct. 13, 2021. The conversations are designed to increase the participants' confidence and competency in the English language to help them in their professional lives.
CJTF-HOA hosts inaugural Women in Security Symposium in Djibouti
9/30/2021
More than 30 women serving with Armed Forces Djibouti, Gendamerie, Republican Guard, National Police and Djiboutian Coast Guard joined U.S., Japanese, Italian, Spanish and Kenyan leaders for Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa's inaugural Women in Security Symposium in Djibouti City, Djibouti, Sept. 22, 2021.
U.S. military medical teams work to reach full vaccination goals in East Africa
8/27/2021
U.S. Army medical personnel with Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) traveled to Camp Simba, Kenya, to administer COVID-19 vaccines in accordance with Department of Defense policy and guidance to help reduce the burden of COVID-19 in high-risk populations and simultaneously mitigate risk to military operations.
U.S., French forces conduct joint combined arms live-fire exercise in Djibouti
8/18/2021
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to various companies from Task Force Iron Gray, in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), and French Soldiers assigned to the 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment (5e RIAOM) participated in a joint combined arms live-fire exercise at the Djiboutian Range Complex, Djibouti, Aug. 11, 2021.
U.S. Army Civil Affairs works to empower women in Djibouti
7/6/2021
U.S. Army Soldiers with the Civil Affairs East Africa (CA-EA) functional specialty team as well as Soldiers assigned to the 404th CA-EA battalion, in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), completed their final lessons of first aid and English at Solidarte Feminine July 1, 2021, in Djibouti City, Djibouti.
Airfield operations brings order to down-range airstrip
6/8/2021
When the Soldiers of the 2-111th Airfield Operations Battalion (AOB) found out they were deploying to Manda Bay Airstrip, Kenya, a recently reactivated camp, they knew there would be a lot of work to be done.
Since arriving, the Soldiers of the 2-111th AOB, in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), have worked diligently to ensure the aircraft that fly in and out of Manda Bay Airstrip do so in a safe and efficient airfield.
Civil Affairs soldiers conduct English discussion groups in Djibouti
6/1/2021
U.S. Army Soldiers with Civil Affairs East Africa (CA-EA), a forward deployed element of Southern European Task Force - Africa (SETAF-AF) in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), participated in information exchanges called English discussion groups (EDG) at schools and learning centers in Djibouti.
Civil Affairs soldiers helped create an environment that encourages continued learning and potential economic growth in the local populace.
U.S., French forces coordinate in mass casualty exercise
6/1/2021
Members of the 776th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron conducted a combined medical evacuation exercise with French Allies on Chabelley Airfield, Djibouti, May 31, 2021. The exercise helped streamline patient transport operations with partner forces from Chabelley Airfield to Camp Lemonnier.
Soldiers promote education, build relations in Djibouti
5/25/2021
U.S. Army Soldiers with Civil Affairs, in support of Southern European Task Force Africa (CA SETAF-AF) and Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), assisted with a library dedication ceremony of a new PK-12 school library at Djibouti City, Djibouti, May 19, 2021.
U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Terrence L. Koudelka, CJTF-HOA deputy commanding general, Liz Canellakis, public diplomacy officer for the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti, and the local school director joined the event, which celebrated the completion and handover of the U.S.-funded construction project.
Two U.S. Soldiers assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) provided updated communications equipment to the Burundi Army signal team in Bujumbura, Burundi, to reestablish the African Data Sharing Network.
CAMP LEMONNIER, DJIBOUTI, May 15, 2021 – U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Lapthe C. Flora, the outgoing Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) commanding general, transferred responsibility to U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William L. Zana during a change of command ceremony. U.S. Army Gen. Stephen J. Townsend, commander of the U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), presided over the ceremony.
Djiboutian Cleric leads Ramadan prayers for CJTF-HOA military members
4/30/2021
Imam Hassan Ahmed Migane, and other prominent Djiboutian Muslim leaders, led a Muslim Maghrib sunset prayer for Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) service members to close out the day’s Ramadan fast at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, April 28, 2021.
Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) deployed forces to Gao, Mali, from Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 30-31. The movement was the third time American forces demonstrated the ability to expeditiously deploy self-sustained operations in an austere environment and better interact with partner forces.
U.S., French forces conduct joint artillery training
2/8/2021
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the East Africa Response Force (EARF) in support of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and French Soldiers assigned to the 5th Overseas Intermarines Regiment (RIAOM) participated in a live-fire joint artillery training event at the Djiboutian Range Complex, Djibouti, Feb. 2, 2021.
U.S. Army Soldiers from Task Force Bayonet, assigned to the East Africa Response Force (EARF) in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), alongside Soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade, based out of Vicenza, Italy, traveled to Somalia as part of a security exercise to Mogadishu International Airport (MIA), Jan. 20-21.
An Airman deployed to the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) received a surprise Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP) promotion to the rank of technical sergeant in a ceremony at the command’s headquarters, Oct. 22, 2020, on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
Nearly 200 Soldiers from the 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB), of Sioux Falls, South Dakota Army National Guard became the new headquarters staff after arriving at Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), Sept. 25, 2020.
Manda Bay, BMA name facilities for fallen service member
5/29/2020
Two contingency locations within CJTF-HOA's combined joint operations area recently named facilities in honor of U.S. Army Spc. Henry J. “Mitch” Mayfield Jr.
