The Government has reaffirmed that the health and safety of Kenyans remain its highest priority, emphasizing that ongoing Ebola preparedness measures are aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to prevent, detect and respond to potential disease outbreaks.
Speaking during a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, President William Ruto said the Government is implementing comprehensive public health interventions, supported by international partners, including the United States, to enhance Kenya’s emergency response capabilities.
The President noted that Kenya has built a strong reputation for responding effectively to major health emergencies and is determined to maintain that readiness amid concerns over the Ebola threat in the region.
Strengthening National Preparedness
President Ruto explained that the quarantine facility being established at Laikipia Air Base with support from the United States is part of a wider national preparedness strategy and should not be viewed as an isolated project.
According to the Head of State, the facility is one of 23 designated centres under Kenya’s disease preparedness framework, established to strengthen surveillance, isolation and response capabilities in the event of a public health emergency.
Other facilities within the framework include centres at Kenyatta National Hospital, the National Police Service Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital and Alupe Hospital, among others.
“The health and safety of Kenyans remain our top priority. We are taking all necessary measures to prevent, detect and manage any potential Ebola cases while strengthening our public health response systems,” President Ruto said.
Longstanding Kenya–US Health Partnership
The President highlighted the longstanding partnership between Kenya and the United States, noting that the collaboration has played a critical role in addressing major health challenges over the years.
He pointed to joint efforts in combating HIV/AIDS, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing Ebola preparedness as examples of successful cooperation that has helped protect millions of lives.
President Ruto recalled that similar partnerships proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic, including support for specialized treatment and isolation facilities that strengthened Kenya’s healthcare response capacity.
“These measures are intended solely to safeguard public health and enhance our readiness to respond effectively to emergencies. They are not unique or exceptional but form part of a comprehensive preparedness system that has served our country well,” he said.
Call Against Politicisation
The President urged political leaders, stakeholders and the public to avoid politicising public health interventions, warning that misinformation and unnecessary controversy could undermine efforts to protect citizens.
He stressed that disease preparedness initiatives are designed purely for public safety and should be supported as part of broader efforts to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare system.
President Ruto reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all Kenyans through proactive planning, investment in healthcare infrastructure and collaboration with local and international partners.
Development Agenda for Northern Kenya
Beyond health matters, the President also outlined progress on key development projects in Northern Kenya, saying the Government remains focused on unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.
He highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic empowerment programmes aimed at expanding opportunities for residents and accelerating inclusive growth.
According to President Ruto, the Government’s broader development agenda seeks to integrate Northern Kenya more fully into the national economy while ensuring that communities benefit from improved services, increased investment and sustainable development initiatives.
“We are committed to accelerating development across Northern Kenya, expanding economic opportunities and ensuring that every region contributes to and benefits from Kenya’s growth story,” he said.
