A storm of controversy has erupted over plans by Kenya and the United States to establish an Ebola quarantine facility, with critics raising legal, health, and sovereignty concerns despite a standing court order.
Reports indicate that American personnel recently arrived at Laikipia Airbase to set up an isolation centre intended for handling Ebola-exposed individuals.
The move, described as a “secret deployment” by sections of the public, has triggered sharp reactions from political leaders, civil society, and industry stakeholders.
The government has defended the initiative, saying it is part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s disease surveillance, isolation, and emergency response systems.
President William Ruto’s administration maintains that the facility will enhance Kenya’s preparedness against infectious diseases, particularly in the wake of recurring Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
However, the plan has met stiff resistance from various quarters. Tourism sector players have warned that hosting Ebola-related facilities could damage Kenya’s global image and deter international visitors.
Industry representatives argue that even the perception of risk could lead to cancellations, affecting a sector that is still recovering from previous global shocks.
Opposition leaders have also strongly criticised the arrangement. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna are among those who have questioned the legality of the project.
They have called on the US government to respect Kenya’s judicial processes and halt the plan pending further consultations.
Legal challenges have further complicated the situation. The Katiba Institute previously secured a court order blocking the establishment of the quarantine facility.
The organisation now claims that both Kenyan and US authorities have yet to provide assurances of compliance with the ruling, raising the possibility of contempt of court proceedings.