Duale Dismisses Border Closure Calls Over Ebola Outbreaks in DRC and Uganda

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has firmly rejected proposals to close Kenya’s borders in response to Ebola outbreaks reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV’s JKLive programme, Duale emphasised that Kenya’s strategy remains anchored in established international public health protocols. He pointed to recommendations from the World Health Organisation as the guiding framework.

The CS argued that blanket border closures would be counterproductive and contrary to global best practices for managing cross-border disease threats. Instead, the focus stays on targeted screening, surveillance and rapid response measures already being strengthened at entry points.

This position comes against the backdrop of ongoing preparations for potential imported cases. Earlier this week, Duale told Parliament that the government would not require public participation for the planned Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, citing urgency under the Public Health Act.

The Laikipia facility forms part of a network of isolation centres being readied across the country. Construction and operational readiness efforts continue with support from international partners including the United States.

Duale highlighted that Kenya has already screened tens of thousands of travellers at key borders and airports. Suspected cases so far have tested negative, but vigilance remains high given the movement of Kenyan peacekeepers and other personnel in affected regions.

He noted that abrupt border shutdowns could disrupt trade, regional cooperation and humanitarian efforts. Kenya’s economy relies heavily on cross-border flows, particularly in the northern and western corridors.

The approach aligns with lessons from previous outbreaks where measured, evidence-based interventions proved more effective than sweeping restrictions. Enhanced laboratory capacity, contact tracing teams and risk communication campaigns are being scaled up.

Funding requests to Parliament include Ksh2.6 billion to prepare for an initial 100 cases. These resources target border surveillance, data management, infection prevention and protection for frontline health workers.

The Laikipia Air Base site was chosen for its isolation, secure perimeter and existing runway infrastructure. Works there will support both Kenyan and foreign nationals requiring quarantine and treatment.

Critics have pushed for tougher border controls, but Duale maintained that Kenya must balance health security with its regional responsibilities. The country continues to engage through established WHO and East African Community channels.

Construction stakeholders involved in health infrastructure projects will monitor these developments closely. The Ebola preparedness push includes physical works such as isolation wards, laboratory upgrades and access improvements at multiple sites.

Duale’s television remarks reinforce a policy of preparedness without panic. As the situation in neighbouring countries evolves, Kenyan authorities say they will adjust measures based on scientific advice rather than political pressure.

The interview comes days after his National Assembly appearance where he defended the fast-tracked Laikipia project and outlined broader funding needs. Together, the statements paint a picture of a coordinated, internationally aligned response.

For now, borders remain open under heightened screening protocols. Health officials continue daily assessments while construction of critical isolation infrastructure advances under emergency provisions.