Heavy Police Deployment as Anti-Ebola Facility Protests Grip Nanyuki for Second Week
Residents of Nanyuki staged fresh demonstrations on Monday, June 9, as opposition intensified against a controversial U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine facility planned at the Laikipia Air Base, despite ongoing court proceedings challenging the project.
Images seen by local media showed a significant police deployment across key sections of the town, with officers accompanied by water cannons as authorities moved to maintain order amid growing public anger over the proposed facility.
Protesters carrying placards and tree branches marched through parts of the town, demanding the immediate cancellation of the project, which they claim was approved without adequate public participation and consultation.
Reports from Nanyuki indicated that several businesses remained closed during the demonstrations, while some streets appeared largely deserted as residents stayed away from the town centre amid fears of possible confrontations.
As of the time of publication, there were no confirmed reports of violence or clashes between demonstrators and security officers.
The protests stem from plans to establish a 50-bed Ebola isolation and quarantine facility at the Laikipia Air Base. The project, reportedly funded through approximately KSh1.68 billion (USD 13 million) in U.S. assistance, was proposed following Ebola outbreaks reported in neighbouring African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
According to project documents, the facility would primarily serve as an emergency isolation centre for American citizens and personnel potentially exposed to the Ebola virus while working across the African continent.
However, the proposal has sparked fierce resistance from local residents and civil society groups, who have questioned the project’s transparency and raised concerns about potential health, environmental, and security implications.
The dispute escalated dramatically on June 1 when residents took to the streets after reports emerged that U.S. military aircraft had landed at the air base despite a court order temporarily halting implementation of the project.
During those protests, police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators. The unrest turned deadly after two protesters were shot and killed, while dozens of others were arrested.
The legal battle over the facility was triggered by a petition filed by the Katiba Institute, which challenged the government’s handling of the project and sought greater public disclosure regarding agreements linked to its establishment.
Following the petition, the High Court directed the government to release documents relating to the deal to ensure public scrutiny and transparency.
The protesters arrested during the earlier demonstrations were later released on bail and subsequently vowed to continue mobilising opposition to the project unless it was permanently shelved.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a security alert to American citizens ahead of the planned demonstrations.
In a statement released on June 8, the embassy warned that protests were expected in Nanyuki and cautioned U.S. nationals to remain vigilant.
“Reports indicate that a demonstration is planned for June 9 in Nanyuki Town, Laikipia County. A significant police presence usually accompanies protests in Kenya,” the embassy stated.
The embassy further noted the possibility of additional demonstrations in the coming days.
“Please note that there is always the potential for demonstrations on subsequent dates in Nanyuki Town or other urban areas in Kenya.”
American citizens were advised to avoid protest areas, monitor local media reports, maintain communication with family and friends regarding their whereabouts, review personal security plans, and carry valid identification documents at all times.
With public opposition showing little sign of easing and court proceedings still underway, the controversy surrounding the proposed Ebola facility is expected to remain a major flashpoint in Laikipia County in the days ahead.
Also Read: Heavy Police Deployment in Nanyuki as Residents Protest Proposed Ebola Facility