Deadly Protest Erupts Over Planned US-Backed Ebola Facility in Kenya

At least two people were killed during protests in central Kenya on Monday over plans by the United States to establish an Ebola quarantine facility at a military base in the country.

According to protest organiser Patrick Wahome and a security source, the fatalities occurred as demonstrators gathered to oppose the proposed project.

The exact circumstances surrounding the deaths were not immediately clear.

Kenyan authorities had not officially commented on the incident as of Tuesday morning. Efforts to reach the national police spokesperson for clarification were unsuccessful.

The protest follows growing opposition to the proposed US-backed Ebola quarantine centre, which has sparked concerns among some residents despite government assurances that the facility would strengthen regional disease preparedness and response capabilities.

The controversy comes at a time when East African nations are increasing surveillance and emergency planning amid fears of a wider Ebola outbreak in the region.

Kenya’s government has defended the proposed facility, arguing that it would help improve the country’s capacity to manage infectious disease threats while supporting broader public health efforts across the region.

The deaths are likely to intensify scrutiny of the project and increase pressure on authorities to address public concerns surrounding the planned quarantine site.