At least two people have been killed during protests in central Kenya against a planned U.S-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, according to a protest organiser and a security source.
The demonstration took place in Nanyuki, where hundreds of youths gathered to oppose the proposed establishment of a 50-bed quarantine unit intended for Americans who may have been exposed to Ebola while abroad. The facility is part of a broader U.S health response plan linked to ongoing outbreaks in parts of Central and East Africa.
Protesters argue that hosting the quarantine centre in Kenya could expose local communities to unnecessary health risks and place additional strain on an already fragile public health system. They also accuse authorities of making decisions without sufficient public consultation.
The deaths reportedly occurred during clashes between demonstrators and security forces, though the exact circumstances remain unclear. One organiser of the protest said the victims died after security personnel opened fire as tensions escalated near the airbase. Kenyan police officials have not yet confirmed the fatalities or provided an official account of what happened.
The protests come amid rising public opposition to the project, which has already faced legal and political scrutiny. A Kenyan court has temporarily halted the establishment of the facility, citing concerns raised in a legal challenge and ordering a pause on construction and operational preparations while the case is reviewed.
Despite the court order, reports indicate continued preparations at the site, including increased security presence and movement of personnel, further fueling local anger and mistrust.
The U.S plan involves using the facility to isolate asymptomatic individuals exposed to Ebola before they either recover or are transferred for further treatment if symptoms develop. Health officials have argued that the arrangement is intended to improve outbreak response capacity and reduce the risks associated with long-distance evacuation.
However, critics in Kenya say the proposal effectively shifts health risks onto host communities, raising ethical and safety concerns. Local leaders and civil society groups have also warned that the project could undermine public confidence in government health policy.
The incident underscores growing tensions between public health planning and community acceptance, particularly in regions where trust in government and foreign-led health interventions remains fragile. Authorities are expected to provide further clarification as investigations into the deaths continue.
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Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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