Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has expressed alarm over reports that the national government intends to establish an Ebola treatment and isolation centre in neighboring Laikipia County, requesting the project be postponed until thorough stakeholder consultations are carried out.
In a statement issued Saturday, Kahiga indicated that residents of Nyeri were disturbed by media reports suggesting an Ebola treatment facility might be established in Laikipia.
“The people of Nyeri County are deeply troubled by media reports circulating regarding plans to create an Ebola treatment and isolation center in the adjacent Laikipia County,” Kahiga stated.
According to the county leader, the two counties share an extensive border and maintain strong social and economic connections.
“It is important to recognize that Nyeri County shares a substantial border with Laikipia, and our communities are closely connected through commerce, transportation and familial relationships. Any public health hazard in Laikipia is therefore a direct matter of concern to the leadership and citizens of Nyeri,” he noted.
The governor acknowledged that Ebola Virus disease continues to represent a significant global health challenge and that precautionary measures are essential to safeguard the nation from potential outbreaks.
“We are fully aware that Ebola Virus Disease is a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and Ebola preparedness and response should be considered a county, national and international priority,” he said.
Kahiga observed that Ebola remains one of the world’s most lethal infectious diseases, marked by high mortality rates and considerable containment difficulties.
“We cannot therefore dismiss the dangers of cross-border transmission via the movement of individuals and commodities along the Isiolo-Laikipia-Nyeri corridor,” he added.
While supporting initiatives focused on enhancing disease monitoring and outbreak readiness, the governor maintained that any decision to establish such a facility should be made transparently and with public involvement.
“As a county administration, we reaffirm our dedication to supporting national and international efforts aimed at improving global health security through enhanced disease surveillance, outbreak preparedness and response. However, such endeavors should be executed via a transparent, consultative and inclusive process that garners public confidence,” he said.
Kahiga further emphasized that residents of Nyeri and their elected representatives must be fully informed and engaged before any determination is made.
“The residents of Nyeri, through their chosen leaders, must be consulted and assured regarding any such facility being established near our borders,” he stated.
The governor urged the Ministry of Health to delay implementation of the project pending consultations and public involvement.
He also requested the disclosure of technical, environmental and safety evaluation reports concerning the proposed facility.
Additionally, Kahiga asked the national government to supply comprehensive information on the project’s goals, financial provisions, operational structure, long-term management and sustainability plans.
The United States is reportedly establishing the proposed facility to handle Ebola victims.