CAMP SIMBA, Kenya -- U.S. Air Force Contracting and Civil Engineer Airmen are joining forces to revamp the living and working environment through a new construction project that will replace tents with containerized housing units and a new state-of-the-art latrine facility.
The effort is part of a larger initiative aimed at improving security, sustainability and operational readiness for military personnel deployed to Kenya. Contractors on site are using cranes and other heavy equipment to install the CHUs and complete the new facilities.
"This project is a huge leap toward enhancing the living conditions and safety of our personnel," said U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Jack Daigneault, 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron Civil Engineer flight deck deputy. "Moving from tent structures to CHUs, the risk of fire is minimized, and a more resistant and secure environment for our troops is guaranteed."
Over the course of 120 days, the first phase of this project will replace 10 aging War Reserve Material tents with 88 CHUs, significantly improving quality of life for personnel assigned to Camp Simba. The current tent structures are vulnerable to fire, pests and severe weather, while the new units will provide a safer, more reliable and sustainable living environment.
The combined efforts between the two flights highlights the importance of collaboration in maintaining and improving base infrastructure. These initiatives not only enhance living conditions but also strengthen Camp Simba’s operational capabilities in austere environments.
“Any improvement we make fortifies the base’s readiness and its ability to support operations in the area,” said U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Sharvet Raymundo, 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron contracting officer. “It is really about building a sustainable infrastructure that will ensure successful missions going forward.”
Through careful planning and coordination, the Camp Simba modernization project reflects the U.S. military’s commitment to sustaining the base and protecting the force by providing safe, functional facilities that support readiness across U.S. Africa Command’s area of responsibility.