In a ceremony marked by dignity and national pride, Prime Minister and interim Head of Government Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed on Tuesday presided over a special awards presentation at the Prime Minister’s Office, recognising two distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to the country’s development and security.
The first honouree was Mohamed Fouad Abdo, Director General of the National Office of Water and Sanitation of Djibouti (ONEAD), who was elevated to the rank of Commander in the National Order of June 27.
A civil engineer with a specialty in water management, Mr. Abdo has been at the forefront of major infrastructure improvements in Djibouti’s water and sanitation sectors.
Under his leadership, ONEAD has secured vital international funding, expanded national sewer systems, and spearheaded collaborative projects such as a partnership with French company Qista to combat vector-borne diseases in vulnerable areas.
Mr. Abdo has also played a significant role in advancing desalination efforts and modernizing wastewater treatment plants.
His technical and diplomatic expertise has been showcased at global events, including the 80th Council of the African Water Association, hosted recently in Djibouti.
Also honoured during the ceremony was Lieutenant-Colonel Thierry Damerval of the French Army, who was awarded the title of Knight in the Order of the Grand Star of Djibouti.
With 33 years of service and previous distinctions including the French National Order of Merit and the Legion of Honor, Lieutenant-Colonel Damerval currently serves as a technical advisor to the Chief of Staff of Djibouti’s National Gendarmerie, Colonel Zakaria Hassan Aden.
His work has been instrumental in enhancing civil security through targeted training programmes and strengthening Franco-Djiboutian cooperation in defence and law enforcement.
The event, attended by high-ranking officers, government officials, and the French Ambassador to Djibouti, Dana Purcarescu, underscored the country’s commitment to acknowledging excellence in public service and deepening international partnerships.
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