The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised strong objections to a reported proposal by the United States to establish an Ebola treatment centre in Kenya, arguing that such facilities should instead be located closer to active outbreak zones.

According to LSK President Charles Kanjama, hosting an Ebola treatment facility in Kenya for patients flown in from other countries would expose the country to unnecessary public health risks.

He emphasised that Ebola treatment centres and isolation units should be placed near the epicentres of infection, such as parts of Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo or Western Uganda, where outbreaks are more likely to occur.

Kanjama noted that while Kenya supports humanitarian assistance and high standards of medical care for Ebola patients, public health priorities must guide decisions on facility location.

He stressed that Kenya should strengthen its safeguards to prevent potential importation of Ebola cases, especially in a context where cross-border transmission remains a concern in the region.His remarks come amid growing debate on how countries should balance international medical cooperation with national safety considerations.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale also weighed in, stating that any arrangement involving Ebola-exposed individuals entering Kenya must strictly comply with Kenyan law, immigration procedures, and established public health protocols.He insisted that no foreign government can bypass Kenya’s sovereignty or health regulations.The Ministry of Health further highlighted existing surveillance, quarantine, and emergency response systems designed to manage infectious diseases.

The proposal has sparked public debate online, with many Kenyans expressing concern over the country’s preparedness to safely handle Ebola-related cases.

Authorities, however, have reiterated that Kenya remains committed to both international cooperation and the protection of public health through strict regulatory frameworks.