Uasin Gishu Ramps Up Ebola Preparedness in New KEMRI Partnership Amid Regional Health Concerns

The County Government of Uasin Gishu has intensified efforts to strengthen Ebola preparedness and response through a strategic partnership with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), amid growing concerns over emerging infectious diseases in the region.

The high-level engagement brought together county health officials and KEMRI experts to deliberate on strategies aimed at enhancing disease surveillance, emergency response, public awareness, and collaboration frameworks in the event of a possible Ebola outbreak.

During the meeting, stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely dissemination of information, public sensitization, and active community participation in preventing the spread of Ebola and other highly infectious diseases.

The discussions further explored areas of collaboration between the county and KEMRI, including technical support, laboratory strengthening, healthcare worker training, surveillance systems, and emergency response coordination.

Kamalel Health Center was identified as the county’s designated quarantine and isolation facility in the event of a suspected or confirmed Ebola case. Health officials noted that the facility will serve as a critical component in the county’s rapid response and containment measures.

Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Services Dr. Billy Lubanga underscored the importance of preparedness and partnerships in protecting public health.

“Preparedness remains the best defense against infectious disease outbreaks. Through this partnership with KEMRI, we are strengthening surveillance systems, improving community awareness, and enhancing emergency response capacity. Community engagement and timely information sharing will be key in ensuring wananchi remain informed and protected,” said Dr. Lubanga.

Director of Clinical Services Dr. Evans Kiprotich, who presented on Ebola preparedness and response, stressed the need for vigilance and coordinated healthcare systems to effectively manage potential outbreaks.

“Ebola is a highly infectious disease that requires rapid detection, proper isolation measures, and coordinated clinical management. We must ensure healthcare workers are adequately prepared, facilities equipped, and communities sensitized on prevention measures and early reporting,” said Dr. Kiprotich.

KEMRI Chief Executive Officer and Director General Professor Elijah Maritim Songok reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting counties in strengthening disease preparedness and response systems.

“KEMRI remains committed to working closely with county governments to enhance disease surveillance, research, laboratory capacity, and outbreak response. Partnerships such as this are essential in ensuring counties are well-prepared to respond effectively to public health emergencies, including Ebola,” said Prof. Songok.

Prof. Songok also pledged KEMRI’s support in providing disinfectants and infection prevention and control (IPC) commodities to bolster the county’s preparedness efforts.

The partnership is expected to strengthen Uasin Gishu County’s readiness to manage potential outbreaks while enhancing public confidence through improved communication, preparedness, and coordinated healthcare response systems.