Kenya Court Halts U.S.-Kenya Ebola Quarantine Facility at Laikipia Air Base

Two people were shot dead during protests near Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki, Kenya, against a planned 50-bed quarantine facility for individuals potentially exposed to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. Police used tear gas and live ammunition after demonstrators blocked roads and burned tires while marching toward the military base.

Both victims died from gunshot wounds; one was a local shopkeeper who had closed his business and was heading home.

U.S. President Donald Trump. It would temporarily house and monitor asymptomatic American citizens, medical missionaries, and other personnel.

Kenya has recorded no Ebola cases despite testing arrivals, while neighboring Uganda has reported 11 cases and one death. Kenyan High Court Judge Patricia Nyaundi extended a temporary suspension barring construction or operation of the facility until at least June 23. S.

Military aircraft have continued delivering staff and equipment to the base despite the order. President Ruto defended the project in a Tuesday post on X, stating it forms part of a national preparedness system and will serve both Kenyans and Americans.

"I can assure the people of Kenya that the agreement between the government of Kenya and the American government is for the good of our country and for the partnership," he wrote.

He added that politicizing the matter was inappropriate given the seriousness of pandemic preparedness.