Government has enhanced screening at Malaba border post in response to Ebola outbreak in DRC

The Malaba border is a famous international crossing point used by thousands of travellers moving across a number of East African countries, including Kenya.

Port Health Officer Josephine Ogula stated that they had taken important steps to manage the high volume of travellers passing through the border.

“In Malaba we are able to screen and clear between 1500 to 2000 people daily, who pass through the border,” noted Ogula

The number constitutes approximately 800 international travellers and about 700 locals, all screened and cleared daily.

Ogula affirmed that all individuals are screened, and only one suspected case has been recorded since the process began.

She noted that they received essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and coveralls, which were previously unavailable.

​The Ministry of Health has been collaborating with partners to ensure provision of critical resources to fortify the surveillance efforts at the border.

A representative from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) reported that they delivered full protective gear to support sample collection and testing procedures.

The support for the Malaba border site included tents, protective masks, and a thermal gun to strengthen screening and temperature monitoring for people entering the country.

​The initiative aims to prevent and manage the transmission risks along the border through comprehensive institutional coordination.

Several consignments have already been delivered to Busia and further essential supplies have been brought to enhance the capacity of the station.

The current shipment includes gloves, aprons, and boots alongside a 50-seater tent.

The overarching objective of these actions is to support and enhance the prevention and control measures against the Ebola virus.