Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni stated that the government is committed to establishing these facilities to ensure proper management of suspected or exposed individuals before the disease spreads.
During a spot-check visit to the Malaba border, Muthoni emphasized the necessity of preparedness, stating that quarantine centers must be implemented “at whatever cost” to enhance the nation’s response capabilities.
This visit occurs alongside intensified surveillance measures following reported Ebola cases in neighboring Uganda. Malaba represents one of Kenya’s most active border crossings and functions as a significant transit route connecting the country to Uganda.
Health officials have enhanced screening of travelers and truck drivers entering Kenya via the border crossing. The Ministry of Health reported that approximately 300 trucks pass through Malaba daily, making this area a primary focus for disease surveillance initiatives.
“The substantial movement between the two nations demands heightened vigilance to minimize cross-border transmission risks,” the PS stated.
As part of continuous preparedness efforts, border health teams have received thermal guns, gloves, hand sanitizers, handwashing stations, disinfectants, dustbins, and cleaning supplies to support infection prevention and control activities.
The ministry has also expanded laboratory capabilities to facilitate rapid testing and response. Enhanced Ebola testing is currently being performed through laboratories in Nairobi and Kisumu.
PS Muthoni reported that Kenya has investigated 59 suspected Ebola cases to date, with all samples testing negative.
“These results confirm that the country remains Ebola-free despite regional outbreak concerns.”
To further improve preparedness, the Ministry of Health has initiated weekly awareness sessions targeting truck drivers and other cross-border travelers. Public education campaigns are also being expanded to enhance understanding of Ebola prevention and early detection.
PS Muthoni advised citizens to maintain appropriate hygiene practices, noting that Ebola transmission occurs through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials.
She also requested hotel operators and accommodation providers to regularly disinfect bedding and frequently touched surfaces to reduce potential health risks. Regular handwashing and proper sanitation practices remain essential for preventing the spread of infectious diseases, she added.
Additionally, the Principal Secretary warned against the dissemination of misinformation and unverified Ebola-related information.
She emphasized that the Ministry of Health maintains control of the situation and continues to monitor developments closely.
The government indicates that surveillance, case management, and public awareness initiatives will remain intensified, particularly in high-risk border areas, as part of ongoing efforts to protect Kenya from any potential Ebola outbreak.