Jakarta, ThedailyID — Kenyan police fired tear gas at demonstrators protesting the construction of a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility in central Kenya on Tuesday, as opposition to the project continued to grow.
The planned facility would provide 50 beds for American citizens exposed to Ebola. Authorities selected a site inside Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki, a town located in central Kenya.
However, many local residents strongly oppose the project. Protesters argue that the United States is shifting health risks to Kenya by sending potentially exposed Americans from outbreak areas in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
As a result, tensions have escalated in recent days. Reports indicate that two people died during protests last week, further fueling public anger.
On Tuesday morning, police dispersed crowds gathering across Nanyuki by firing tear gas. Meanwhile, some demonstrators carried symbolic signs and crosses to express their rejection of the quarantine center.
The controversy has intensified despite a Kenyan court order that temporarily halted construction work. Nevertheless, both Kenyan and US officials continue to support the project.
According to US officials, the facility would only house American citizens exposed to Ebola who have not developed symptoms. If patients later show signs of infection, authorities would transfer them to another country for treatment.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has maintained a strict policy against allowing Ebola cases into the United States. Consequently, officials view offshore quarantine facilities as a key part of their containment strategy.
Meanwhile, reports suggest US logistical operations have continued despite the court ruling. Diplomatic sources and flight-tracking data indicate that military aircraft have transported personnel and equipment to the site in recent weeks.
In addition, satellite imagery reviewed by Reuters showed a growing number of white tents inside a cleared section of Laikipia Air Base. The area covers roughly 11 hectares and has expanded since late May.
The US government acknowledged the ongoing legal challenge and said it is working with Kenyan authorities to address public concerns surrounding the project.
Kenyan officials also stated that the facility could eventually serve Kenyan citizens and other foreign nationals if necessary. However, US authorities have not publicly confirmed those plans.
As debate continues, the proposed quarantine center has become a flashpoint in Kenya, raising questions about public health policy, national sovereignty, and international cooperation during disease outbreaks.
