The US government has finally responded to concerns over a proposed Ebola quarantine facility in Kenya, signalling its readiness to engage Kenyan authorities.This follows the High Court of Kenya issuing interim orders stopping the establishment of the facility, which was meant to handle Ebola cases.Katiba Institute challenged the project, citing lack of transparency, public participation, and parliamentary oversight.Washington, through Under Secretary Jeremy Lewin, confirmed ongoing talks with Nairobi and expressed optimism that disagreements could be resolved.The legal restrictions prevent the admission or transfer of any Ebola-exposed individuals into Kenya until further notice.

Public debate has intensified, with Kenyans worried about the potential risks of hosting such a facility, especially given Ebola’s high fatality rate.

The planned facility, reportedly a 50-bed centre at Laikipia Airbase in Nanyuki, is part of wider cooperation between Kenya and the US on health security.Alongside the court ruling, the US had proposed a KSh 1.

75 billion commitment to strengthen Kenya’s Ebola preparedness, discussed during meetings between President William Ruto and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Kenya’s Ministry of Health and officials defended the initiative, noting it strengthens both national and regional readiness for outbreaks and contributes to global health security.The situation remains under close attention as negotiations and public concerns continue.