The United States has committed $13.5 million (approximately KSh1.75 billion) to strengthen Kenya’s Ebola preparedness as Washington and Nairobi deepen cooperation amid a regional Ebola outbreak and growing debate over reports that Americans exposed to the virus could be monitored or treated in Kenya. The commitment was announced following talks between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President William Ruto, during which both leaders agreed to coordinate efforts to secure critical medical supplies and reinforce Kenya’s health response capacity.  

Reports that the United States was considering Kenya as a possible location for monitoring or treating Americans exposed to Ebola have triggered public concern and raised questions about the country’s preparedness and role in global health security. In response, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that discussions with the U.S. and other international partners are ongoing but stressed that any cooperation would be guided by Kenyan law, biosafety standards, and the need to protect citizens and healthcare workers.  

Government officials maintain that Kenya is well prepared to handle any potential Ebola threat. The Ministry of Health has activated its Incident Management System, intensified screening at points of entry and strengthened surveillance and laboratory testing. More than 55,000 travellers have been screened, while all 10 suspected Ebola cases tested in the country have tested negative.  

However, the possibility of Kenya hosting Ebola-related facilities has sparked legal and political opposition. The Katiba Institute has filed an urgent petition seeking to block the establishment of any Ebola quarantine, isolation or treatment facility linked to a foreign government, arguing that such plans should not proceed without public scrutiny. The organisation is seeking conservatory orders to halt any approvals pending a court determination.  

The controversy has also drawn strong reactions from healthcare workers. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) have issued the government with a 48-hour ultimatum to disclose details of any negotiations with the United States regarding a proposed Ebola facility at Laikipia Air Base. The union warned that it could mobilise industrial action if any agreement proceeds without transparency and significant improvements to Kenya’s healthcare system.  

Despite the concerns, Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga has defended Kenya’s readiness, citing lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and investments that have strengthened the country’s capacity to manage infectious disease outbreaks. As discussions continue, the issue is shaping up to be a test of how Kenya balances global health cooperation with public confidence, legal oversight, and national biosecurity concerns.