Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
Addressing the National Assembly on Wednesday, the CS said Kenya’s cooperation with Washington dates back to a 2015 agreement and has significantly strengthened the health sector.
The Cabinet Secretary warned that Kenya remains vulnerable to Ebola because of its role as a major regional centre for air travel, trade and diplomatic activities.
In a letter addressed to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Wednesday, the union said Kenya’s healthcare system is not adequately equipped to safely manage such high-risk cases and urged the government to prioritize the welfare of healthcare workers and the public before entering into any related international arrangements.
The coalition said the government's approach to the issue had been marked by secrecy and inadequate public engagement at a time when citizens expected clear communication and reassurance.
Senator Methu also accused the government of deliberately isolating communities in the Mount Kenya region and warned against what he described as efforts to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.
The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee criticised third-country arrangements for treating Americans with Ebola, saying patients should be managed within the U.S. health system. The comment comes amid Kenya’s legal scrutiny of a proposed Ebola facility at Laikipia Air Base.
Oluga further argued that Kenya’s strong economic and transport links with the region necessitate heightened preparedness, noting that many Kenyans continue to travel frequently for work-related activities in the DRC.
In a statement on Sunday, the regional bloc said the Extra-Ordinary Virtual Meeting of the Sectoral Council of Ministers responsible for Health will deliberate on measures aimed at containing the outbreak and strengthening preparedness among member states.
There are now more than 1,000 suspected Ebola cases in the DR Congo, and at least 246 deaths. Neighbouring Uganda has reported nine confirmed cases and one death.
In a statement on May 30, 2026, CS Duale said that as a regional hub for trade, travel, and commerce, Kenya must remain prepared to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats before they reach communities.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced the move on Saturday after a tour of JKIA, saying the country has intensified monitoring in response to Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Matches will be played across major cities in the three countries, with millions of international visitors expected to travel across North America during the month-long event.