One killed as Kenyan protests at US Ebola centre turn violent

Violent clashes erupted in Nanyuki, Kenya, as hundreds protested against the construction of a U.S.-funded Ebola quarantine center, resulting in at least one death. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons to protesters who lit fires and threw stones, while gunshots were also heard.

The center, located at Laikipia Air Base near Mount Kenya, is designed to quarantine Americans arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is currently experiencing a significant Ebola outbreak. Kenya has no recorded cases of Ebola, leading to widespread opposition to the facility.

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His death is confirmed. We are waiting for his family.

Protesters voiced strong opposition, with one participant stating, "Laikipia isn’t a dumping site… I’m not happy about the U.S. decision that they’re going to build a quarantaine in our country." Dozens were arrested during the running battles.

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Laikipia isn’t a dumping site… I’m not happy about the US decision that they’re going to build a quarantaine in our country.

The U.S. government has maintained a cautious public stance, emphasizing its collaboration with the Kenyan government. The facility, intended to house 50 isolation beds and be managed by U.S. staff, was nearing completion despite a temporary pause order from Kenya's High Court and local political opposition.

President William Ruto's administration has affirmed its commitment to proceeding with the center, citing years of U.S. aid as a reason for cooperation. The U.S. has also pledged $13.5 million towards Kenya's Ebola preparedness efforts, with Ruto noting the long-standing partnership in health matters.

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The American people and government have been partners with us on matters of health for close to 25-30 years.