Kenyans Resist US-Backed Ebola Quarantine Centre Amid Fears

In a fresh wave of protests, several Kenyans were taken into custody on Tuesday as they demonstrated against the establishment of an Ebola quarantine centre specifically designed for American citizens in the tourist town of Nanyuki. The proposed centre, which is to be situated at Laikipia Air Base under the shadow of Mount Kenya, aims to quarantine Americans arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country currently grappling with a major Ebola outbreak. Notably, Kenya has not recorded any cases of Ebola, leading to widespread opposition to the idea of potentially introducing the virus into the country. Dozens of protesters gathered near the air base, with some donning protective gear and carrying a coffin marked with 'Ebola'. According to reports from AFP journalists, several individuals were arrested by the police, who also deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds. A 30-year-old protester, Zipporah Wachira, expressed her concerns, stating, 'We don’t have that disease in this country… they are bringing a virus into our country.' The centre, which is nearing completion and is set to have 50 isolation beds managed by US staff, has been a subject of controversy. Rights groups have reported that two people lost their lives, although the circumstances surrounding their deaths are unclear. The construction of the facility had been temporarily halted due to a court order and has faced opposition from local politicians in Laikipia. However, the government, led by President William Ruto, has vowed to proceed with the project, citing years of health support from the US as a reason for their commitment. President Ruto emphasized, 'The American people and government have been partners with us on matters of health for close to 25-30 years.' He further stated, 'It would be most unfortunate if, on one request by the Americans to set up a facility at their cost, we would refuse. We would look very inhuman.' The health minister of Kenya has assured that the facility will cater to both Kenyans and Americans. The US has pledged $13.5 million towards Kenya's Ebola preparedness efforts, following a controversial health deal between the two countries last year. The World Health Organisation has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo an international health emergency, with 515 confirmed infections and 91 deaths reported. While there are fears of the outbreak spreading to neighbouring countries, only Uganda has recorded cases so far, with 19 confirmed infections, mostly involving Congolese nationals who crossed the border.