Tensions Rise in Kenya as Protesters Oppose US-Backed Ebola Quarantine Facility

Public opposition to a planned Ebola quarantine centre in Kenya intensified on Tuesday, with several protesters arrested during demonstrations in the town of Nanyuki.

The facility, being constructed at Laikipia Air Base near Mount Kenya, is designed to isolate American citizens arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where authorities are battling a significant Ebola outbreak.

The project has become increasingly controversial in Kenya, a country that has never recorded a case of Ebola. Critics argue that bringing potentially exposed travellers into the country unnecessarily increases public health risks.

During Tuesday’s protest, demonstrators gathered near the military base wearing protective suits and carrying a coffin labelled “Ebola” to symbolise their concerns.

AFP journalists at the scene reported that police arrested several protesters and used tear gas to disperse the crowd.

“We don’t have that disease in this country… they are bringing a virus into our country,” said protester Zipporah Wachira.

The facility, expected to house 50 isolation beds and be staffed by Americans, was close to completion before a temporary suspension order was issued by Kenya’s High Court.

The project has already triggered public unrest. During earlier protests on June 1, rights organisations reported two deaths, although details surrounding those incidents remain uncertain.

Despite resistance from residents and local political leaders, President William Ruto has defended the initiative, describing it as part of Kenya’s longstanding partnership with the United States.

“The American people and government have been partners with us on matters of health for close to 25-30 years,” Ruto said.

“It would be most unfortunate if on one request by the Americans to set up a facility at their cost, we would refuse. We would look very inhuman.”

Kenyan health authorities have sought to reassure the public, insisting the facility will also be available for Kenyan citizens if necessary.

Washington has committed $13.5 million toward strengthening Kenya’s Ebola preparedness, a move that comes after a controversial health cooperation agreement signed between both countries last year.

The concerns emerge as the World Health Organization continues to monitor the Ebola outbreak in the DRC, where 515 infections and 91 deaths have been confirmed.

While fears remain over regional spread, only Uganda has reported cases outside the DRC, recording 19 infections, most involving Congolese nationals who crossed the border.

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