Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale reassured the public about the new Ebola quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia Airbase. He emphasized that the center will serve all patients, not just U.S. citizens.
In a recent interview with Citizen TV, Duale highlighted that this facility is part of Kenya’s strategy to enhance readiness for potential Ebola outbreaks, with management by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
“The facility will welcome all patients, and the KDF will oversee it,” he stated, expressing confidence in their robust medical capabilities.
Duale also announced that the U.S. government has pledged Sh1.7 billion to bolster Kenya’s public health efforts, similar to previous support for institutions like Africa CDC and WHO. This funding aims to improve Kenya’s ability to detect and manage infectious diseases before they escalate.
He mentioned that other countries are also contributing resources, ensuring the nation is prepared for any large-scale outbreaks.
Duale urged politicians to refrain from exploiting this issue for political gain, emphasizing the need for responsible handling of public health matters based on facts.
The government plans to establish a specialized health facility at Laikipia in collaboration with the U.S. to enhance monitoring and emergency response for Ebola outbreaks. This initiative arises from growing concerns about the Ebola situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
While the project has faced controversy, including legal challenges regarding a 50-bed quarantine facility for Americans, Duale reassured that the Laikipia center is just one part of a broader national preparedness initiative.
He revealed plans for 11 specialized centers across the country to strengthen Kenya’s readiness for Ebola and other health emergencies, aligning with warnings from international health organizations about the ongoing risks associated with the virus.
