By Brian Said Iha, Nanyuki, May 30, 2026
Tension is mounting in Laikipia County after youth groups in Nanyuki announced plans to stage demonstrations on Madaraka Day, June 1, 2026, in protest against the proposed construction of a U.S.-backed Ebola isolation and quarantine facility at the Laikipia Air Base.
The planned protests come barely a day after the High Court issued orders temporarily halting the implementation of the project pending the hearing and determination of a petition challenging its legality and potential public health implications.
Speaking during a gathering in Nanyuki town on Saturday, youth leaders accused authorities of disregarding the court order, claiming they had observed increased aircraft activity and what appeared to be ongoing construction work within the military installation. The youths alleged that trucks carrying construction materials and equipment had continued to access the facility despite the court’s intervention.
“We respect the rule of law and the authority of the courts. If the court has stopped the project, then all activities related to it should stop immediately. What we are seeing on the ground raises serious concerns,” one of the organizers said.
The protesters say their demonstration will be peaceful and aimed at demanding transparency from both the Kenyan and U.S. governments regarding the purpose, scope, and safety measures surrounding the proposed facility. They argue that local residents have not been adequately consulted and that many questions remain unanswered regarding the project’s potential impact on public health, tourism, and the local economy.
The proposed Ebola isolation and quarantine center has generated intense debate across the country since reports emerged that it would be used to receive and monitor individuals exposed to the Ebola virus during the ongoing international response efforts. Supporters of the project argue that the facility would strengthen regional disease surveillance and emergency preparedness, while critics have expressed concerns about safety, public participation, and environmental impact.
County leaders have called for calm and urged residents to await the outcome of the ongoing court process. Security agencies are also expected to closely monitor the situation ahead of the planned demonstrations to ensure public order is maintained during the Madaraka Day celebrations.
Legal experts note that the High Court’s conservatory orders remain in force unless varied or set aside by the court. Any activities directly related to the suspended project could become a matter for judicial review if evidence emerges that the orders are being disregarded.
As Madaraka Day approaches, Nanyuki finds itself at the center of a growing national debate balancing public health preparedness, national security interests, judicial authority, and community concerns. The planned demonstrations are expected to draw significant attention as residents seek answers over the future of the controversial facility and the government’s next course of action.
Authorities have yet to publicly respond to the allegations of continued activity at the air base following the court’s decision. However, the unfolding developments are likely to intensify scrutiny of the project in the days ahead.
