The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has raised strong objections over plans linked to the establishment of an Ebola quarantine and treatment facility in Kenya, reportedly associated with the United States.

The union argues that Kenyan health professionals are being sidelined in discussions between the Kenyan government and US representatives regarding the proposed centre.

According to statements from the Ministry of Health, the discussions involve a facility intended to monitor and treat US citizens who may have been exposed to Ebola, with reports suggesting that American medical personnel could be deployed to staff the centre.

KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah criticised the arrangement, questioning why Kenya should host individuals considered high-risk when even the US reportedly finds it unsafe to manage them locally.

He demanded full transparency on the bilateral agreement and insisted that Kenya should not be turned into what he termed a “dumping ground” for biosecurity risks.

The union also expressed concern about Kenya’s already strained healthcare system, pointing out shortages of health workers and underfunded public facilities.

The union further argued that if such a facility is established, it should prioritise employment of qualified Kenyan doctors and healthcare workers, many of whom are currently unemployed or on temporary contracts.KMPDU warned against what it described as an unequal healthcare system where foreign staff are prioritised over local professionals.

The union issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding disclosure of negotiations and warned of potential nationwide industrial action if Kenyan health workers are excluded or if national health security is compromised.The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over healthcare staffing, resource allocation, and international health agreements in Kenya.