Police disperse Nanyuki residents protesting Ebola facility, make arrests

The demonstrators were also mourning 17-year-old Sylvester Muigai Ndung'u, a student fatally shot during earlier protests on June 9 over the same project. The facility, intended for US citizens exposed to Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has faced local resistance due to public health concerns and a perceived lack of transparency. Despite the peaceful nature of the gathering, police used force, made arrests, and confiscated protest materials.

The project, part of a bilateral agreement between Kenya and the United States, was temporarily halted by the High Court on May 29, but construction reportedly continued. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale was cited for contempt for alleged non-compliance with the stop-work order, later apologizing and directing an immediate cessation of activities. Local leaders, including Laikipia governor Joshua Irungu and senator John Kinyua, have voiced opposition, citing potential exposure risks and lack of consultation.

Residents are demanding independent confirmation that construction has permanently ceased.