Kenyan protests over US Ebola centre leave one dead
At least one person was killed during violent protests in Nanyuki, Kenya, against a US-run Ebola quarantine centre. The facility, located at Laikipia Air Base, is intended to isolate Americans arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fears among locals. Protesters clashed with police, who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. The demonstrations have also impacted tourism and drawn criticism from community members and local politicians.
What we know
- One man was shot and killed during clashes between protesters and police in Nanyuki, according to Hussein Khalid of Vocal Africa.
- The US quarantine centre is being built at Laikipia Air Base to isolate Americans arriving from the DRC, which is experiencing a major Ebola outbreak.
- Protests turned violent, with fires, stone-throwing, and the use of tear gas and water cannons by police; dozens were arrested.
- The United States has pledged $13.5 million to Kenya’s Ebola preparedness efforts and continues to work closely with the Kenyan government.
- News of the centre has led to a decline in tourism bookings, with local hotel groups reporting cancellations and calling for government reassurances on safety.
