President William Ruto has explained his decision to approve the establishment of a U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine facility at the Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki, stating that the request came directly from former U.S. President Donald Trump as part of bilateral cooperation to combat high-risk diseases.

Speaking on Monday evening, President Ruto emphasized that Kenya remains committed to its long-standing partnership with the United States, which has supported the country’s health sector for decades, including interventions on HIV/AIDS and Ebola. He noted that the proposed facility is no different from 23 other Ebola preparedness centers already operating across Kenya, including at Kenyatta Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Alupe Hospital, and others.

Ruto dismissed the growing opposition as political, arguing that Kenya must remain prepared given the proximity to Ebola-affected regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. He warned against reckless political rhetoric and reaffirmed the government's responsibility to protect citizens.

The clarification follows public outcry in Nanyuki, where hundreds of residents protested the planned facility over health concerns. Security forces intervened to prevent demonstrators from reaching the military base.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has also defended the initiative, stating that the center will serve both Kenyan and U.S. nationals, particularly those operating in high-risk areas, and is part of a broader national outbreak preparedness strategy.

In a separate development, the High Court has issued conservatory orders temporarily halting the establishment of the facility. The court also barred the government from admitting or transferring Ebola-exposed individuals under the contested arrangement until the case, filed by the Katiba Institute, is fully heard.

As of the latest reports, 1,031 Ebola cases and 240 deaths have been confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo since mid-May.