Duale defends Laikipia Ebola facility amid court dispute
National
By
Fred Kagonye
| Jun 12, 2026
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended the construction of the US-funded Ebola facility at Laikipia Air Base, saying it is a precautionary measure and not evidence of an outbreak.
Speaking on Friday, June 12, during abriefing on Ebola preparedness, Duale asserted Kenya has not recorded any case of the Bundibugyo virus strain and urged the public not to confuse preparedness with panic.
"They are precautionary measures designed to ensure that if a suspected or confirmed case arises, our health system can respond swiftly and effectively while protecting the public," he said.
His remarks came a day after Katiba Institute filed an application at the High Court seeking to cite Duale and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor for contempt, arguing they ignored earlier court orders halting construction of the facility.
READ MORE
Security and liberalised skies key to growth of aviation sector in Africa
Why KRA has changed tack in revenue collections
Budget reality check: Moody's warns Kenya of fiscal pain ahead
Not for beginners: Why new market entrants quit easily
How to use digital platforms without losing business identity
Anatomy of a loan default and what it will cost you
Monopoly of Sh1,000 note and why Kenya's economy runs on it
Ruto hits out at global lenders, calls for Africa's inclusion
How Wilson Airport runway rehabilitation is hurting airlines
Tech firms launch country first sovereign cloud to protect sensitive data
Through lawyer Joshua Malidzo, the lobby group argued that the two officials were aware of the court orders but allowed construction to continue.
Duale said Kenya remains on high alert following an Ebola outbreak reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on May 15 and concerns over regional cross-border movement.
He averred that the government has strengthened surveillance and screening at points of entry, laboratory preparedness, healthcare worker training, risk communication and isolation capacity.
The CS also urged media outlets to help combat misinformation by sharing verified and evidence-based information.
"In times of heightened public concern, inaccurate reporting can create unnecessary fear, confusion and stigma," he said.
Duale said the ministry would continue providing regular updates and called on healthcare workers to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases.
He also urged county governments to invest in surveillance, rapid response teams, healthcare worker training, isolation facilities and public awareness campaigns.
"Lets remember that preparedness is not a sign that danger is at our doorstep."
According to satellite images shared by international media outlets, construction is ongoing at Laikipia Air Base, believed to be the Ebola quarantine centre.
Protests have since ensued in parts of Nanyuki and Laikipia against the facility, resulting in the deaths of at least three people.