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Protests Erupt in Kenya Over US-Backed Ebola Quarantine Center Plans
Escalating Protests Against Ebola Center in Kenya
Protests have erupted in Kenya over plans to build a U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine center at the Laikipia Air Base in the country's central region. According to news agencies and eyewitness reports, at least two people were killed when police opened fire during the protests, and several others sustained injuries. Many local residents fear exposure to Ebola patients and have expressed strong opposition to the facility.
Court Halts Construction Amid President Ruto's Defense
The Kenyan court has temporarily suspended the construction of the facility. However, Kenyan President William Ruto has defended the plans, stating that the facility at Laikipia Air Base is no different from the 23 other facilities already in Kenya. He emphasized that proper screening and isolation would prevent the spread of the disease, ensuring that any positive cases of Ebola would be immediately isolated and treated to avoid further transmission.
Concerns from Kenyan Citizens and Medical Professionals
Conversely, citizens in Nairobi expressed concerns about Kenya's capacity to handle Ebola patients. Some protesters highlighted that the government's continued pursuit of the project, despite a court order, is unconstitutional. Additionally, Kenyan medical professionals stated that there is a lack of sufficient protective gear and trained medical personnel to manage Ebola cases, indicating that the country is currently unprepared for a potential outbreak. They argue that Kenya relies heavily on donor funding for its medical institutions and that more urgent needs, such as supplying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), should be addressed first.
*Source: YouTube: DW News (2026-06-02)*
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