Gunfire, tear gas, and court intervention as residents oppose US-backed isolation centre at Laikipia Air Base

At least two people have been killed in Nanyuki after anti-Ebola facility protests turned violent over plans to establish a United States–funded Ebola isolation centre at Laikipia Air Base in Kenya.

Hundreds of residents took to the streets on Monday, blocking major roads and setting tyres ablaze in anger over the proposed project. Security forces responded with tear gas in an attempt to disperse the demonstrators as tensions escalated across the town.

Authorities say one of the victims was shot near the airbase and died at the scene, while another protester was later declared dead on arrival at hospital with gunshot wounds.

The protests continued despite a court order temporarily halting the project. On Tuesday, the High Court extended the suspension and directed the government to fully disclose details of the planned facility.

Kenyan President William Ruto defended the initiative, stating that the country has adequate safety measures in place and is assisting a long-time ally in responding to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The proposed 50-bed isolation centre has triggered strong opposition from residents, health workers, and rights groups, who warn it could pose health and safety risks to surrounding communities.

Security has been tightened in Nanyuki as authorities move to prevent further unrest amid rising tensions over the project.