President William Ruto has moved to clarify the nature of the quarantine facility being established at Laikipia Air Base, dismissing suggestions that it represents an unusual or politically motivated arrangement with the United States.
He urged leaders not to politicize public health interventions.
Speaking at a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, Ruto said the facility is one of 23 such centres operating under Kenya’s disease preparedness framework.
He said that it will work alongside established units at Kenyatta National Hospital, the National Police Service Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, and Alupe Hospital in Busia, among others.
“The quarantine facility being established at Laikipia Air Base with the support of the United States is neither unique nor exceptional, but part of a broader national preparedness system,” Ruto said.
He added that the measures are intended solely to safeguard public health and strengthen Kenya’s capacity to respond effectively to health emergencies.
The President emphasized the depth of Kenya’s long-standing health partnership with the United States, noting that it had proved invaluable during previous public health crises.
“Kenya’s partnership with the United States spans decades and has played an important role in supporting our response to major public health challenges, including HIV/Aids, COVID-19, and Ebola,” he said.
To back his point, Ruto also pointed to the establishment of a specialised facility at Nairobi Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic as one example of how such partnerships have worked in practice.
On the broader Ebola threat, Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Kenyans.
“The health and safety of Kenyans remain our top priority. The Government is taking all necessary steps to prevent, detect, and manage any potential cases, while strengthening our public health response capabilities,” he said.
Ruto also used the Wajir engagement to discuss progress on key development projects in Northern Kenya, reiterating the government’s commitment to unlocking the region’s economic potential and accelerating inclusive growth.
