By Otieno Bildad
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended the government’s plan to establish an Ebola isolation facility at Laikipia Airbase despite opposition from lawmakers.
Speaking before the National Assembly Health Committee on Wednesday, Duale said the facility is part of a network of 23 isolation centres the government is establishing to strengthen preparedness against infectious disease outbreaks.
He maintained that the project is provided for under the Public Health Act and does not require public participation.
“We shall not consult. This epidemic does not require consultation. Before Kenyans die, the government has a responsibility to protect both Kenyans and non-Kenyans alike within our borders or transiting through our country,” Duale said.
However, lawmakers questioned the need for the facility and called for greater clarity on its purpose.
Committee Chairperson James Nyikal said the agreement under discussion did not specifically address Ebola and sought further explanation from the ministry.
“In pandemics, people are treated where they are. This agreement is general and does not specifically address Ebola,” Nyikal said.
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Laikipia North MP Sarah Korere opposed the proposal, arguing that Kenya should not host Ebola patients from outside the country.
“It is unfortunate that we saw the US declare that it would not allow even one Ebola case to set foot on American soil. If someone is infected in Congo (DRC), why would they bring them to Laikipia?” Korere said.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro also criticised the plan, saying Kenyans had expressed concerns about the facility and urging the government to reconsider.
“Kenyans have spoken with one voice. We do not want this facility in Kenya. Please listen to Kenyans,” Nyoro said.
The proposed isolation centre has sparked debate over Kenya’s preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks and the government’s handling of public health interventions.
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