The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, has assured the National Assembly that Kenya remains free of Ebola Virus Disease despite growing regional concerns over outbreaks. 
By Fredrick Kioko,
The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, has assured the National Assembly that Kenya remains free of Ebola Virus Disease despite growing regional concerns over outbreaks.
Appearing before the House during Question Time on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Duale said Kenya has not recorded any confirmed Ebola cases as of June 2, 2026, but emphasized that the government remains on high alert.
He noted that Kenya, being a regional aviation and trade hub, continues to strengthen preparedness measures across national and county levels, including isolation units, surveillance systems, and trained health workers.
Duale told MPs that the Ministry of Health has designated an eight-bed isolation and treatment unit at Kenyatta National Hospital, while the National Police Service Hospital has set aside 49 beds for emergency response. He added that 29 counties have already identified isolation facilities, and more than 1,000 health workers have been trained on Ebola response.
The CS also said Kenya has activated key response pillars including surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, infection prevention, risk communication, logistics, and regional coordination.
On international cooperation, Duale clarified that Kenya signed a 2015 agreement with the United States under the Biological Engagement Programme, which was later approved by Cabinet and tabled in Parliament. He said the arrangement includes technical and logistical support in the event of a public health emergency.
However, lawmakers raised concerns over the proposed Ebola quarantine facility, with several MPs questioning its location, safety, and potential impact on local communities and tourism.
Laikipia MP Sarah Korere questioned the safety of hosting such a facility at Laikipia Air Base, while Busia County leaders opposed converting Alupe Hospital into an isolation centre, citing its importance to residents.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and other legislators urged the government to prioritise public concerns and ensure transparency in international health agreements.
In response, Duale said international cooperation does not amount to a surrender of sovereignty, stressing that all public health decisions remain under the authority of the Kenyan government.
