Kenya protests US Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia air base

The United States is building a 50‑bed Ebola quarantine centre for American citizens at Laikipia Air Base near Nanyuki, central Kenya. The facility is intended to treat U.S. nationals exposed to the virus during the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, although Kenya itself has recorded no cases.

Hundreds of locals have demonstrated against the project, fearing the virus could be imported and criticizing the perceived neo‑colonial move. Protesters reported two deaths during the demonstrations, and a Kenyan high court ordered a halt to construction, but work has continued. Health Minister Aden Duale said, "We will not stop" the construction, while President William Ruto defended cooperation with Washington.

U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasized that the United States will not allow Ebola cases to enter the country and pledged $13.5 million to Kenya’s Ebola preparedness, with an additional $112 million for the regional response. The centre remains empty and is managed by U.S. staff, but tensions persist as Kenyan communities demand greater transparency and protection of public health.