By Brian Iha
June 2, 2026
WAJIR, Kenya
President William Ruto has defended the proposed US-backed Ebola preparedness facility at the Laikipia Air Base, saying the project is aimed at strengthening Kenya’s capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks and should not be turned into a political issue.
Speaking during a media roundtable at the Wajir State Lodge, the President dismissed criticism surrounding the facility and urged leaders to focus on the country’s health security rather than politics.
Ruto said the facility is part of efforts to enhance Kenya’s preparedness against dangerous diseases such as Ebola, which continue to pose a threat in parts of Africa. He noted that investing in disease surveillance, emergency response systems and specialized health infrastructure is essential for protecting the population from future outbreaks.
The President emphasized that Kenya cannot afford to wait for a major health crisis before investing in preparedness measures, arguing that governments have a responsibility to put in place systems capable of detecting and containing disease outbreaks before they spread.
He also defended the government’s cooperation with international partners, saying such collaborations play an important role in strengthening national and regional health systems. According to Ruto, the project reflects Kenya’s commitment to global health security and efforts to protect citizens from emerging health threats.
His remarks come amid growing debate over the proposed facility, which has faced opposition from some leaders and residents in Laikipia. Critics have questioned the project’s implementation and raised concerns over its potential impact on local communities.
However, the President maintained that the facility is intended solely to improve preparedness and response capabilities and should not be viewed as a threat to the surrounding population.
Ruto warned against spreading misinformation about the project, saying public health matters require informed discussions guided by science and expert advice. He urged leaders to support initiatives that strengthen the country’s ability to prevent and manage disease outbreaks.
The proposed facility has attracted national attention in recent weeks, with supporters arguing that it will enhance Kenya’s readiness to deal with future epidemics while critics continue to demand greater transparency and public engagement.
Despite the controversy, the government has reiterated its commitment to improving the country’s public health infrastructure and ensuring Kenya remains prepared to respond effectively to emerging health emergencies.
The President’s defense of the project signals the government’s determination to push ahead with investments aimed at strengthening disease preparedness and safeguarding public health across the country.
