Nairobi:Kenya is intensifying its efforts to combat the Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease outbreak through sustained surveillance, enhanced response capabilities, and continued international cooperation. The country’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, recently held discussions with a World Health Organization (WHO) delegation, led by the Regional Director for Africa, Prof. Yakub Janabi, to evaluate the national response and strengthen health sector priorities.
According to Kenya News Agency, these bilateral talks acknowledged WHO’s technical and operational support, which includes the provision of essential response supplies and personal protective equipment. WHO also validated Kenya’s Filovirus Surveillance Standard Operating Procedures as the nation enters a critical phase of its response, having recorded three consecutive weeks without a new confirmed Ebola case.
Kenya has reported nine Ebola cases linked to a single transmission cluster, with no evidence of community transmission. Six patients have recovered, two have died, and one remains under treatment. More than 772,000 travelers have been screened at 28 points of entry, with 736 samples tested across five laboratories. Additionally, over 7,300 healthcare workers have received training.
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted the donation of 12 portable PCR systems and a 28-bed Ebola Treatment Unit, which will boost diagnostic, isolation, and treatment capacities. He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance through active surveillance, rapid investigation of alerts, and continued screening at entry points. Furthermore, he requested additional WHO support for diagnostic supplies, technical training, and infrastructure in high-risk counties.
The discussions also addressed joint monitoring of the outbreak countdown, an After-Action Review, and the declaration of the outbreak’s end once public health criteria are met. The Cabinet Secretary expressed concern about travel bans and visa restrictions imposed by some countries, urging WHO to ensure public health measures are based on scientific evidence and international regulations.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to create a joint Kenya-WHO action plan, focusing on the operationalization of donated diagnostic equipment, capacity building, and supporting the remaining phase of the Ebola response. The discussions also covered Universal Health Coverage, strengthening the Kenya National Public Health Institute, local manufacturing of health products, and digital health transformation.
The Cabinet Secretary was joined by WHO Kenya Country Director Dr. Neema Kimambo, Principal Secretary for Public Health Ms. Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and other Ministry officials.
