Kenya requires Ksh.2.6B to prepare for first 100 Ebola cases - CS Duale

Appearing before the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 3, the CS explained that the funds will support border screening and surveillance, laboratory services, risk communication and data management. 

Some of the funds will be set aside for surge staffing, emergency logistics, infection prevention and control, operational research and social protection for frontline workers. 

According to Duale, the findings stemmed from a readiness assessment that evaluated the Ministry's strengths and gaps. 

The findings showed that while Kenya has a strong capacity in contact tracing (100%), rapid response teams (90%) and laboratory readiness (87%), there are gaps in prevention and control (56%), operations support and logistics (50%), case management (36%), and travel and Points of Entry preparedness (60%). 

"These findings are not a sign of inaction. They are a reflection of transparent assessment. They allow the government to know precisely where to invest, what to strengthen and how to close the preparedness gaps before a case is detected," CS Duale noted. 

He noted that the most urgent gaps include additional Ebola-specific PPE, diagnostic tests and reagents, isolation and quarantine facilities, emergency logistics, and rapid deployment support. 

Other gaps comprise simulation exercises, health worker protection, contact tracing resources, risk communication and emergency operational financing.

He added that the resources will support automated thermoscan scanners and digital registries at high-volume Points of Entry, Rapid Response Team deployment, and contact tracing through community structures. 

"I therefore request the support of this House in ensuring timely allocation and release of emergency preparedness resources. In public health emergencies, delayed financing is delayed protection and a risk to the public," the CS appealed. 

His remarks come after the government received backlash over plans to establish a 50-bed Ebola quarantine unit at the Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki, backed by Ksh.1.7 billion in US funding.

In response, President Ruto defended the project as mutual cooperation, though the High Court temporarily halted it following local protests and lawsuits.