How an Ebola Facility Became the Most Controversial Part of Kenya’s US Health Partnership
Kenya’s health partnership with the United States is facing renewed scrutiny after details emerged that plans for an Ebola quarantine facility were included within the framework.
The project has since been suspended by the High Court pending a legal challenge. The agreement, signed in Washington in December 2025, is valued at KSh323 billion over five years and provides for up to $1.6 billion in US funding. It was initially presented as a major investment in Kenya’s health sector, with support earmarked for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal health and disease surveillance.
However, the inclusion of provisions on infectious disease outbreak response and preparedness has prompted debate over the extent of US involvement in Kenya’s public health policy. The deal was signed by President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and US Secretary of State Marc Rubio.
Kenyan officials, including Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, defended the agreement, saying it protected national interests while ensuring the continuation of essential health services. Ruto said the partnership supported Kenya’s Social Health Authority reforms and its efforts to achieve universal health coverage.
Critics, however, argue that the government may not have fully considered the diplomatic commitments linked to outbreak preparedness measures. Questions grew after plans were disclosed for a US-staffed Ebola quarantine facility in Laikipia.
The proposal involved an initial 50-bed field hospital that could be expanded to 250 beds if necessary. Reports indicated that personnel from the US Public Health Service were undergoing training at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland before deployment. The High Court later suspended the project while it considers a petition challenging the plans.
At the same time, Kenya has strengthened surveillance measures at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in response to Ebola outbreaks in neighbouring countries. Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said Gate 16 has been designated for travellers arriving from high-risk areas, with isolation facilities established at the airport.
Enhanced screening procedures require passengers to submit online health declarations. Authorities are also using genomic sequencing and aircraft waste sampling to identify potential threats.
Health officials have said that no Ebola cases have been recorded in Kenya and have urged the public to rely on information issued by the Ministry of Health rather than unverified reports circulating online. While Kenyan authorities maintain that the agreement will strengthen the country’s health system, concerns remain over the role of foreign personnel and facilities.