Kenya has stepped up its preparedness measures against the Ebola virus following outbreaks reported in neighbouring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with the Ministry of Health identifying 25 counties as either high risk or very high risk. Speaking at Afya House, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni assured the country that no Ebola cases have been confirmed locally. However, she emphasized that authorities are maintaining heightened surveillance across all entry points to prevent any possible spread.
Counties classified under the very high-risk category include Nairobi, Mombasa, Uasin Gishu, Busia, Kisumu, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Siaya, West Pokot, Turkana, Homa Bay and Migori—many of which lie along Kenya’s borders. Meanwhile, Vihiga, Kakamega, Nakuru, Kericho, Nandi, Kiambu, Machakos, Kilifi, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Isiolo, Elgeyo Marakwet and Garissa have been listed as high-risk areas.
The government has intensified screening measures, revealing that over 13,500 travellers were checked at various entry points within a single day. Cumulatively, approximately 67,000 individuals have undergone screening as part of the ongoing containment efforts. To further strengthen preparedness, the Ministry is considering mandatory 21-day quarantine protocols for travellers arriving from high-risk countries. In addition, over 1,000 healthcare workers have been trained to respond swiftly to any suspected Ebola cases.
Emergency operation centres have also been activated in 26 counties to enhance rapid response capabilities in the event of an outbreak. Kenyans have been advised to avoid non-essential travel to affected countries as authorities work to contain the situation. The government will also require travellers entering the country to present certified exit screening reports from their countries of origin. These reports must also be shared with airlines or transport operators used during travel.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 1,000 suspected Ebola cases in the DRC since the outbreak was declared in mid-May, including nearly 250 deaths. Uganda has also recorded infections, including at least one fatality.
President William Ruto has maintained that Kenya has adequate systems in place to manage and contain the virus if detected. However, his administration has faced criticism following the approval of a United States-backed Ebola quarantine facility at the Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki.
While Kenya remains free of confirmed Ebola cases, the government’s proactive measures highlight the seriousness of the threat. With increased surveillance, trained personnel, and stricter travel protocols, authorities aim to keep the country safe from the deadly virus.
