The government has designated Gate 16 at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) as a dedicated entry point for travellers arriving from countries considered at high risk of Ebola, in the latest move to shield Kenya from a possible outbreak.
The new directive comes amid heightened concern over the spread of Ebola in parts of East and Central Africa, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, which have strong transport and trade links with Kenya.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said passengers arriving from affected regions will now undergo enhanced screening procedures through the specially designated gate before being allowed into the country.
An isolation facility has also been set up at the airport to handle any suspected cases detected during screening.
The move signals a significant escalation in Kenya’s preparedness efforts as authorities race to prevent the deadly virus from crossing the border.
Beyond the airport screening, health officials have also intensified surveillance systems, including monitoring travellers’ health declarations and strengthening emergency response mechanisms in case of a suspected infection.
The latest development comes just days after the government defended plans to establish a regional quarantine and disease surveillance facility, arguing that Kenya’s position as a major transport hub makes it particularly vulnerable to cross-border disease outbreaks.
While no Ebola case has been reported in Kenya, the creation of a dedicated entry gate at JKIA underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the regional threat.
For now, Gate 16 has become Kenya’s first line of defence in a battle officials hope will never have to be fought.
