Pastor Ng’ang’a Reacts to Kenya–US Collaboration to Set Up Ebola Quarantine Centre in Laikipia

• Pastor Ng’ang’a criticised the proposed Kenya–US plan to set up an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base
• The project, aimed at isolating US citizens exposed to Ebola in DRC, has sparked debate amid court challenges and public safety concerns
• During a recent sermon, Pastor Ng’ang’a warned that the facility could pose health risks to Kenyans if not properly controlled

Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding a proposed Kenya–US collaboration to establish an Ebola quarantine facility in Laikipia County.

The facility is expected to be used to isolate US citizens who may have been exposed to the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sparking widespread public concern and debate.

What we know about the Laikipia Ebola quarantine facility

Reports indicate that the United States and Kenyan governments are planning to set up a 50-bed Ebola quarantine centre at Laikipia Air Base.

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Aden Duale Says Laikipia Ebola Centre Will Be Managed by KDF, Admit Kenyans if Cases Are Reported

The facility is intended to isolate American citizens exposed during the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in the DRC.

The US government has reportedly committed $13.5 million (approximately KSh 1.75 billion) towards Kenya’s Ebola preparedness efforts.

However, the project has faced legal challenges, with the High Court temporarily suspending its implementation following a petition by the Katiba Institute, which raised concerns over public health risks and transparency.

Despite the court order, reports suggest that US military aircraft have already landed at the airbase carrying medical personnel and equipment to begin setting up the facility, raising further questions about compliance with the ruling.

What did Pastor Ng’ang’a say about the Ebola quarantine facility?

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with many questioning why a quarantine centre is being set up in a country that has not reported any Ebola cases.

During a recent church sermon, Pastor Ng’ang’a criticised the idea, warning of possible risks to the public.

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“I have heard that Ebola is coming. The Americans want to establish a facility here in Kenya. Are they okay? The doctors will leave that facility and blend in with the public, which might spread the disease to us. You have signed for it to be brought to us,” he said.

The preacher went on to question why the facility could not be established in the US, which has better medical systems than Kenya.

“Just picture this, they have decided not to take them to America, which is a very big country… now ask yourselves, is it that there are no places they can establish such a facility?” he said.

Watch the video below:

Netizens react

The preacher’s remarks echoed concerns already being raised online, with many Kenyans debating the safety, legality and necessity of the proposed facility.

Here are some of the sentiments Kenyans shared online:

nancy.ndirangu:

“Surely even commander can see this threat na government haioni?”

munyion:

“Hadi commander amekataa.”

esther.miriti:

“The reasoning is fire.”

karmaseries254:

“Kama ni ng’ang’a ameona kuna shida basi we are finished.”

key_hush9:

“Kama haimake sense kwa nga’nga ni noma.”

What did Health CS Aden Duale say about the Ebola facility?

In related developments, the government defended its collaboration with the US over the proposed Ebola containment facility, despite growing public opposition.

Read also

US breaks silence on Kenya Ebola facility court case, says it’s ready for talks: “We’re in touch”

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale maintained that the project will be managed by the Kenya Defence Forces and will also benefit Kenyan citizens, not only US citizens.

He further explained that the US role is mainly supportive, aimed at strengthening Kenya’s preparedness.

Source: TUKO.co.ke