President William Ruto has defended the controversial US-backed Ebola preparedness facility at Laikipia Air Base, insisting the project is designed to strengthen Kenya's capacity to respond to a possible outbreak rather than introduce new health risks.
Speaking during a media interview in Wajir after the Madaraka Day celebrations, Ruto confirmed that he personally approved the arrangement following a request from U.S. President Donald Trump. He described the initiative as part of a longstanding health partnership between Kenya and the United States.
According to the President, the facility is not unique, noting that Kenya already operates more than 20 Ebola preparedness and isolation units in hospitals across the country, including at Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and Alupe Hospital.
Ruto argued that Kenya must remain prepared for any potential outbreak, particularly given its proximity to countries affected by Ebola and the large number of Kenyans living and working in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He said the government has a responsibility to ensure that citizens who may contract the disease abroad can be treated safely upon returning home.
The President also revealed that the proposed cooperation forms part of a broader health partnership framework valued at approximately KSh200 billion, aimed at strengthening Kenya's healthcare infrastructure and disease response capabilities. He added that researchers at Kenya Medical Research Institute are actively participating in global efforts to develop effective Ebola vaccines and treatments.
His remarks come amid growing opposition to the proposed facility, including protests in Nanyuki and a High Court order temporarily suspending the project. Critics have raised concerns over public health risks, lack of consultation, and the potential impact on tourism and local livelihoods in Laikipia County.