Health CS Aden Duale has assured Parliament that Kenya remains free of Ebola Virus despite growing concern over an ongoing regional outbreak and plans linked to international public health cooperation.
Appearing before the National Assembly, Duale told lawmakers that no confirmed Ebola case had been recorded in the country as of June 2, 2026.
He nevertheless emphasized that the Government was treating the regional threat seriously due to Kenya’s position as a major transport, trade, and diplomatic hub.
“Ebola is a severe disease with a high fatality rate and poses a significant public health threat,” he said.
Preparedness Measures Activated Nationwide
The Ministry of Health has rolled out preparedness measures at both national and county levels to strengthen the country’s response capacity.
At the national level, Kenyatta National Hospital has designated an eight-bed isolation and treatment unit, while the National Police Service Hospital has set aside 49 beds that can be activated during an outbreak.
County governments have also stepped up preparedness efforts. According to Duale, 29 counties have identified isolation and treatment facilities, while 1,069 health workers have undergone training on Ebola preparedness and response.
MPs Raise Questions on U.S. Quarantine Agreement
A significant portion of the debate focused on Kenya’s agreement with the United States regarding quarantine facilities for U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals during public health emergencies.
Duale clarified that the cooperation agreement was signed in 2015, approved by Cabinet, and tabled before Parliament in 2016. He maintained that the arrangement does not compromise Kenya’s sovereignty.
Laikipia Woman Rep Sarah Korere raised concerns about the possibility of infected individuals being transported to facilities near local communities, warning of potential risks to residents and the tourism sector.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro argued that Kenya should carefully consider public concerns, noting that the United States possesses significantly greater resources to manage such emergencies.
Responding to the concerns, Duale stressed that international cooperation does not amount to surrendering national authority.
He assured Parliament that all public health decisions remain under the Government of Kenya and that any designated facilities would serve all Kenyans rather than being reserved exclusively for foreign nationals.
