President William Ruto has defended his administration’s decision to allow the United States to transport Ebola-exposed individuals to Kenya for treatment, amid growing public concern over health risks and national safety.
The revelation, highlighted in Wednesday’s Daily Nation, shows that the government approved the use of a quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki to host American nationals exposed to the deadly virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The decision has sparked debate, with critics questioning the timing, transparency, and preparedness of the country’s health systems.
According to the President, the move followed a direct request from former US President Donald Trump, who sought Kenya’s support in managing the crisis.
Ruto acknowledged granting approval for the arrangement, stating that it was part of Kenya’s broader commitment to international cooperation.
However, the decision has triggered protests, particularly in Nairobi, where demonstrators expressed fears over the potential spread of Ebola within the country.
Health experts have also raised concerns about whether adequate containment measures were in place before the patients were brought in.
The Daily Nation reports that US officials later deemed the Kenyan facility inadequate, opting to airlift the patients elsewhere.
This development has intensified criticism, with some observers describing the move as poorly executed and lacking sufficient risk assessment.
Government officials have maintained that strict protocols were followed and that there was no immediate threat to the public.
They argue that Kenya has previously handled infectious disease outbreaks and possesses the technical capacity to manage such situations.
Still, the controversy has exposed deeper concerns about crisis management, public communication, and the balance between global partnerships and domestic safety.
Analysts note that the issue could have political implications, particularly as public trust becomes central in handling health emergencies.
As scrutiny continues, attention is now shifting to whether Kenya will review its policies on hosting foreign medical emergencies and strengthen its disease preparedness frameworks.