President William Ruto has defended the establishment of a United States-supported Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, insisting that the centre is part of Kenya’s broader disease preparedness strategy and not evidence of an Ebola outbreak in the country.
Speaking during a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, the President moved to calm public concerns that have emerged following reports about the construction of the facility, saying the government’s only objective is to protect Kenyans from potential health threats.
“The health and safety of Kenyans remain our top priority. As part of our preparedness measures against the Ebola threat, the Government is taking all necessary steps to prevent, detect, and manage any potential cases, while strengthening our public health response capabilities with the support of our international partners, including the Government of the United States,” Ruto said.
The President also urged political leaders and stakeholders not to spread misinformation about the project or politicise public health interventions.
Why Is Kenya Establishing an Ebola Quarantine Facility?
The Head of State explained that the quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base is part of a national preparedness framework designed to ensure the country can effectively respond to disease outbreaks should they occur.
“The quarantine facility being established at Laikipia Air Base with the support of the United States is neither unique nor exceptional, but part of a broader national preparedness system,” he said.
According to Ruto, the facility is one of 23 quarantine and disease preparedness centres spread across Kenya.
“It is one of 23 such centres under Kenya’s disease preparedness framework, alongside facilities at Kenyatta National Hospital, the National Police Service Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, and Alupe Hospital, among others,” he stated.
The President emphasized that the facility is intended solely for emergency preparedness and does not mean that Ebola patients are being brought into the country.
Kenya’s Long Partnership With the United States in Public Health
Ruto noted that Kenya and the United States have worked together for decades in tackling major public health challenges.
“Kenya’s partnership with the United States spans decades and has played an important role in supporting our response to major public health challenges, including HIV/Aids, COVID-19, and Ebola,” he said.
The collaboration has supported disease surveillance, laboratory strengthening, emergency response systems, medical research, training of healthcare workers and outbreak management.
The President said similar partnerships proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic when Kenya expanded its treatment and emergency response capacity.
“Similar partnerships proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the establishment of a specialised facility at Nairobi Hospital, and continue to enhance our preparedness today,” he added.
What Is Ebola and Why Is Kenya Preparing?
Ebola is a severe viral disease that can spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. While Kenya has not reported an Ebola outbreak, health authorities have historically maintained surveillance systems because of the country’s position as a regional transport, trade and travel hub connecting East and Central Africa.
Public health experts have long argued that preparedness remains the most effective defence against infectious disease outbreaks, allowing governments to rapidly isolate suspected cases, trace contacts and prevent widespread transmission.
The government maintains that the Laikipia facility is a precautionary measure aimed at strengthening national readiness should an outbreak occur elsewhere in the region.
Ruto Warns Against Politicising Public Health
As debate surrounding the project continues online and in political circles, the President cautioned leaders against turning health matters into political contests.
“These measures are intended solely to safeguard public health and strengthen our capacity to respond effectively to health emergencies,” he said.
Ruto further appealed for responsible leadership and public cooperation.
“I urge leaders and stakeholders not to politicise public health interventions,” the President stated, reaffirming “the Government’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all Kenyans.”
Development Agenda for Northern Kenya
Beyond the discussion on public health preparedness, the President said he also reviewed progress on key development projects across Northern Kenya.
“I also discussed progress on key projects and the broader development agenda for Northern Kenya, including ongoing efforts to unlock the region’s immense potential, expand economic opportunities, and accelerate inclusive growth,” he said.
The government has in recent years invested billions of shillings in road construction, electricity connectivity, water projects, education, healthcare and security initiatives aimed at transforming the region and addressing historical development gaps.
Ruto said his administration remains committed to ensuring that every part of Kenya benefits from national development programmes while strengthening critical sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure and economic growth.
As public debate over the Laikipia Air Base facility continues, the government insists that the project is a preventive public health measure designed to enhance Kenya’s preparedness against future disease outbreaks and protect the health of all citizens.
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