Kenya possesses adequate Ebola testing kits, reagents, and personal protective equipment (PPE) capable of managing approximately 200 patients, according to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
The Cabinet Secretary stated that Kenya has enhanced its preparedness protocols and designated four laboratories for Ebola testing if necessary.
During a Wednesday appearance before legislators, the Cabinet Secretary informed members of parliament that the government has identified four facilities capable of testing for the virus, classified as a high-risk pathogen.
“I wish to be very transparent. Although laboratory capacity is robust, test kits, reagents, and personal protective equipment sufficient to manage around 200 cases are already in place,” Duale stated.
“Given the extreme risk posed by the virus, four laboratories have been designated for Ebola testing: the National Public Health Laboratory in Nairobi, KEMRI laboratories in Nairobi and Kisumu, and the mobile laboratory in Busia.”
Duale noted that these facilities are equipped with molecular testing technology allowing for swift detection and diagnosis of suspected Ebola cases.
The Health Cabinet Secretary also disclosed that screening and surveillance measures have been intensified at key entry points as part of efforts to prevent the disease’s introduction and spread.
“Screening has been enhanced through thermal scanners, holding rooms, and ambulance systems, which are being reviewed and activated at all priority entry points, including major airports and high-volume land border crossings,” he explained.
Kenya has increased its preparedness efforts following an Ebola outbreak in neighboring Uganda, with health authorities enhancing surveillance, testing, and emergency response measures to minimize transmission risks.
The government has emphasized its continued state of high alert, with response systems being reinforced to ensure quick identification and management of any suspected cases.
The Ministry of Health reports that over 2,200 health workers have been trained to respond to potential Ebola cases, with additional training conducted during recent surveillance exercises following regional outbreaks. Authorities have also intensified monitoring of travelers arriving from Ebola-affected regions, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, as part of early detection initiatives.
The government has indicated that designated facilities, including quarantine and isolation centers, are being prepared to manage suspected cases while maintaining strict infection prevention and control protocols.
During Tuesday remarks, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga stated that Kenya is prepared for the worst-case Ebola outbreak scenario and has implemented contingency measures, including shared quarantine facilities.
He noted that Kenya’s preparedness is informed by previous experience and ongoing monitoring of regional outbreaks, especially in neighboring countries.
“The Laikipia Ebola facility is available to everyone; it serves both Kenyans and Americans. What we have is a quarantine facility. Kenya is adequately preparing to handle Ebola. We are ready for the worst-case scenario,” Oluga stated.