Ruto Defends Laikipia Ebola Facility as Kenya Ramps Up Preparedness Against Deadly Virus

President William Ruto addresses a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, where he defended the establishment of the Laikipia Air Base Ebola quarantine facility and reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting public health.

 

Article by: Babz Abdul-Raheem.
Date: June 02,2026.

President William Ruto has defended the establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, insisting that the move is part of Kenya's broader disease preparedness strategy and should not be politicised.

Speaking during a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, President Ruto reassured Kenyans that the government is taking all necessary measures to prevent, detect, and manage any potential Ebola cases, emphasizing that public health and safety remain the administration's top priority.

Ebola is one of the world's deadliest viral diseases, with fatality rates ranging from 25 to 90 percent depending on the strain and access to treatment. The disease spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons and can cause severe fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in extreme cases, internal and external bleeding.

Addressing concerns surrounding the quarantine centre at Laikipia Air Base, the President clarified that the facility is not unique or exceptional but forms part of a nationwide network of 23 disease preparedness and response centres established across the country.

According to Ruto, other facilities are located at Kenyatta National Hospital, the National Police Service Hospital, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, and Alupe Hospital in Busia, among others.

"The health and safety of Kenyans remain our top priority," the President said, adding that the quarantine facility has been established with support from the United States Government as part of long-standing cooperation in combating public health threats.

Ruto noted that Kenya's partnership with the United States has previously supported the country's response to major health emergencies, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and Ebola preparedness efforts. He pointed out that similar collaborations proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping strengthen healthcare infrastructure and emergency response systems.

Health experts have maintained that quarantine facilities are essential components of outbreak preparedness, particularly for highly infectious diseases such as Ebola. They argue that having designated isolation centres allows authorities to quickly contain suspected cases and prevent community transmission in the event of an outbreak.

The President urged political leaders and stakeholders to avoid spreading misinformation or turning public health interventions into political contests, saying such actions could undermine efforts to protect lives.

Beyond health matters, Ruto also highlighted ongoing development projects in Northern Kenya, saying the government remains committed to unlocking the region's economic potential, expanding opportunities, and accelerating inclusive growth.

As neighbouring countries continue to strengthen surveillance against infectious diseases, Kenya's investment in preparedness infrastructure signals a proactive approach aimed at ensuring the country is ready to respond swiftly and effectively should an Ebola threat emerge.