Health CS Aden Duale has reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to respond to emerging public health threats, saying the country remains a trusted regional partner in global health security.
In a statement released on May 27, the Ministry of Health said Kenya continues to strengthen preparedness measures in response to the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the region.
The statement comes amid ongoing discussions between Kenya, the United States government, and other international partners on strengthening global outbreak response systems.
Kenya has in recent years positioned itself as a frontline player in disease surveillance, emergency response, and public health coordination across East Africa.
Preparedness Measures Intensified Across Borders
According to Duale, Kenya has activated its national Incident Management System and intensified surveillance at points of entry to prevent possible cross-border transmission.
More than 55,000 travellers have so far been screened through various ports of entry, while ten suspected cases have been tested. All samples returned negative results.
The government has also designated laboratories for Ebola testing and enhanced coordination between national and county governments.
Kenya’s experience in handling previous outbreaks has become central to its current preparedness strategy. During the 2014–2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak, Kenyan health professionals supported response operations and surveillance efforts across the continent.
Health Systems Investments Strengthen Response Capacity
The Ministry attributed Kenya’s growing regional role to years of investment in health systems strengthening, workforce development, laboratory capacity, and emergency preparedness.
The government also stressed that any international health cooperation arrangements would remain subject to Kenya’s national laws, public health regulations, and biosafety standards.
Protection of citizens and frontline health workers, the Ministry noted, remains the government’s top priority.
Duale also acknowledged the role played by the United States and other development partners in strengthening the country’s health security systems.
According to the Health CS, these partnerships have supported investments in surveillance infrastructure, workforce training, emergency preparedness, and broader health systems development.
CS Duale said Kenya would continue working closely with global partners while maintaining a science-driven and nationally guided approach to public health management.
“Kenya is ready. Kenya is capable. Kenya will continue to act responsibly in safeguarding both national and global health security,” Duale said.
The government said it would continue issuing regular updates as the regional situation evolves.
