The High Court in Nairobi has temporarily stopped the planned establishment of a United States-linked Ebola quarantine facility in Laikipia County after concerns were raised over public safety and the possible risks to Kenyans.
The decision came after the Katiba Institute filed an urgent petition at the Milimani Law Courts seeking to block the project before it could be implemented.
In conservatory orders issued on Friday, Justice Patricia Nyaundi barred the government from approving, facilitating or allowing the setting up of any Ebola exposure, quarantine, isolation or treatment centre linked to the U.S. government or any other foreign agency until the matter is fully heard and determined in court.
“Upon reading the Notice of Motion dated May 28, 2026, a conservatory order is hereby issued restraining the respondents from establishing, operationalising, facilitating, approving establishment of any Ebola exposure, quarantine, isolation or treatment facility in Kenya,” the court directed.
The judge also stopped the government and its agents from allowing into the country any persons exposed to or infected with Ebola under the reported arrangement with the United States.
The case has quickly drawn attention because of fears surrounding Ebola, a disease that has previously caused deadly outbreaks in parts of Africa and often leaves communities anxious whenever reports of possible exposure emerge.
Katiba Institute argued that allowing such a facility to operate before the case is heard could put lives at risk and expose the public to unnecessary danger.
Justice Nyaundi marked the matter as urgent and directed the respondents to respond to the application within 48 hours from the time they were served.
Furthermore, the court directed Katiba Institute to file its supplementary affidavit within one day from when the respondents’ responses have been filed.
The matter will be cited once more on June 2, 2026, when the court will give further directions regarding how to proceed with the case.
Finally, Justice Nyaundi warned anyone or entity who disobeys the conservatory orders that he/she/it will face the full force of law.