AGP Executive Report

Ebola Watch (Kenya): Kenya screened over 80,000 travellers for Ebola at points of entry, with 56 suspected samples testing negative, as the Ministry of Health keeps risk-based surveillance and rapid response teams on standby. Ebola Crisis (DRC/Region): WHO warns the DRC outbreak is “outpacing” response efforts, with Uganda reporting new cases; WHO and Africa CDC also unveiled a $518m six-month plan to scale up surveillance, testing, clinical care and community engagement. Public Health & Safety (Schools): COSSAAK urges counselling and psychosocial support for students and families affected by Kenya’s recent wave of dormitory fires, saying mental health care must move with the same urgency as building safety reviews. Community Concern (Laikipia): Residents in Nanyuki remain alarmed over the US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, even as Kenya insists it is part of national preparedness. Health System Readiness (US): Reuters reports most US high-risk infectious disease treatment centers are ready to handle Ebola if needed, amid ongoing debate over where exposed Americans should be treated.

Ebola Response & Public Trust: The U.S. has authorised an experimental Ebola antibody treatment (MBP-134) for Americans with high-risk exposure in the Central Africa outbreak, while Kenya’s Laikipia quarantine facility plan continues to spark court battles and protests, with President William Ruto defending the move as necessary for regional preparedness and WHO warning the outbreak had a “big head start” and needs faster action. School Safety & Care: KNH has discharged five Utumishi Girls Academy fire survivors after recovery, as families prepare to bury 16 students and calls grow for stronger school administration and staffing. Youth SRHR Alarm: A major Mombasa conference on adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health says Africa’s institutions are failing young people, with teenage pregnancy, HIV and substance abuse highlighted. NCD & Cancer Partnership: PS Oluga urges stronger Novartis collaboration to expand care for non-communicable diseases, cancer, sickle cell and palliative services under UHC. Maternal Health Support: Bungoma County launches a blood drive to ease shortages affecting mothers, newborns and accident victims. Tobacco Reform Debate: The Harm Reduction Society of Kenya warns proposed tobacco amendments could backfire by fueling illicit trade and increasing burdens, urging harm-reduction focus.

Ebola Response in Kenya: Kenya has activated enhanced surveillance and readied isolation and testing capacity as the rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain spreads in Uganda and the DRC, with officials saying no cases have been recorded locally and urging the public to use *719#/719 for updates. Court vs US Ebola Facility: Health CS Aden Duale defended Kenya’s decision to proceed with a US-backed Ebola quarantine centre at Laikipia Air Base despite court blocks and deadly protests, insisting it will serve Kenyans and Americans and that the government will improve how it communicates the plan. Regional Coordination: EAC health ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola screening and protective measures across airports, ports and land borders, setting up a regional technical taskforce to coordinate the response. Public Health Capacity: Kenya also hosted a nuclear and radiation safety forum for healthcare, aiming to strengthen regulatory systems as more countries expand medical radiation use. Maternal Health Win: Pumwani Maternity Hospital reported just two maternal deaths in 2025 out of 11,515 deliveries, highlighting safer childbirth reforms. Child Mental Health: Kenya’s National Child Helpline (116) is receiving about 1,200 calls daily, with stress and depression among the top concerns.

Ebola & Courts: Kenya’s High Court ordered the government to disclose details of the proposed US-linked Ebola quarantine facility in Laikipia and extended a halt on building/using it after deadly protests in Nanyuki, where one man died and others were injured; the dispute has also sparked fresh flights of equipment and staff despite court orders, while WHO warns Congo’s Ebola outbreak is still outpacing response. Teen Pregnancy & SRHR: The Ministry of Health says 15% of girls aged 15–19 are already pregnant or mothers, with plans to roll out comprehensive sexuality education to curb teenage pregnancies and HIV. Ebola Preparedness in Hospitals: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu says it has isolation units, a treatment centre, lab capacity and staff training as Uganda’s outbreak raises surveillance. NTDs in Trans Nzoia: The county is stepping up neglected tropical disease control with safer water and sanitation, including boreholes and dam rehabilitation, to cut bilharzia, jiggers and worms. Data Protection Crackdown: ODPC warns hospitals, schools and other data handlers/processors to register or face fines up to Ksh5 million. Workplace Wellness: KWAL introduces paid menstrual leave (one day per month) starting June 1 to support wellbeing at work. Tobacco Policy: MoH invites public views on new rules to tighten the shisha/waterpipe tobacco ban. Local Health System Costs: A court ordered release of a body held for years over a Sh5.5m hospital bill, highlighting the burden of medical debt.

Ebola Update: WHO chief Tedros warned Congo’s Ebola outbreak had a “big head start” and Kenya must “move faster,” even as suspected cases fall after improved testing; WHO now cites 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths in DR Congo, with 116 suspected. Kenya Ebola Preparedness: Health CS Aden Duale told Parliament Kenya has screened 71,243 people at borders and investigated 22 Ebola alerts across nine counties—all negative—while naming 12 “very high-risk” counties along major transport routes for enhanced surveillance. Laikipia Quarantine Controversy: Courts extended a block on the US-linked 50-bed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base after deadly protests; Duale says facilities remain under Kenyan authority and will proceed, while the US Embassy insists the site poses “no risk” to nearby communities. Health System Accountability: Aga Khan University Hospital and a neurologist were ordered to pay Sh4.35 million over a child’s meningitis death after misdiagnosis. Maternal & Child Health Tech: Kiambu unveiled a digital surgery system linking local and global doctors. Autism Stigma: A father’s story highlights denial and shame after an autism diagnosis, pushing for better support and advocacy. Climate & Chronic Disease: Experts say climate change is fuelling chronic illnesses and pregnancy risks. Nutrition & Safety: KALRO and KEBS warned of high aflatoxin levels in Kenyan cereals. Local Economy & Jobs: IFTEX 2026 opened in Nairobi, spotlighting Kenya’s floriculture growth, sustainability and export earnings.

Ebola Quarantine Clash: Kenya’s High Court extended a block on a proposed US-linked Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, ordering the government to disclose its agreement with Washington; protests in Nanyuki turned deadly with reports of two deaths after police fired on demonstrators, while US officials argue Kenya’s proximity to DRC makes rapid treatment safer. Food Safety Alert: KALRO warned that cereals in Kenyan markets contain dangerously high aflatoxin levels, with some samples reaching up to 500 parts per billion against a WHO limit of 10 ppb, raising liver cancer and child health fears. Maternal Health Push: Kenyan obstetricians and surgeons are turning to virtual reality and telemedicine to cut preventable maternal deaths, targeting postpartum haemorrhage and faster care. Health System Reform: Parliament passed the Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Bill, setting standards, accreditation and stronger patient rights. Wellbeing & Access: A new fuel credit line by fintech tabb aims to ease cash-flow strain for transporters as fuel costs rise.

Ebola Court Battle: Kenya’s High Court extended a three-week block on a proposed US-linked 50-bed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base/Nanyuki, ordering the government to disclose all agreements and operational protocols within seven days; protests have turned deadly, with reports of two deaths after clashes with police. Presidential Pushback: President William Ruto defended the plan as part of Kenya’s broader preparedness, saying it is meant to protect Kenyans and serve partners, while urging the public not to politicise public health. Outbreak Updates: In DR Congo, WHO reported suspected cases dropping to 116 from 906, with confirmed cases at 321 and 48 deaths, as the outbreak continues to strain regional response; Uganda reported additional cases. School Safety After Utumishi Fire: Secondary schools alumni and architects called for nationwide dormitory safety audits and new evacuation rules after the Utumishi Girls tragedy that killed 16 students. Mental Health & Data: Kenya also saw calls for better data systems for development and fresh attention to mental health needs among healthcare workers.

Ebola Response Under Fire: Kenya’s High Court suspended a US plan to open an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, after protests in Nanyuki and warnings that the move could endanger locals; President Ruto defended the project as part of long-running Kenya–US health security cooperation, saying Kenya has no Ebola cases and borders are on high alert. US Travel Advisory: The US Embassy issued a travel advisory to Americans in Kenya, warning demonstrations could spread to other towns including Nairobi and may disrupt transport and security. Doctors Push Back: US healthcare officials urged Congress not to adopt a policy to treat Ebola-exposed Americans overseas, warning of clinical and ethical risks and diversion of resources from outbreak control at source. Vaccine Caution: WHO restricted Ervebo Ebola vaccine use to controlled clinical trials, stressing strain-specific effectiveness and the need for disciplined science during outbreaks. Public Health Debate: Health CS Aden Duale is set to brief MPs on preparedness for Bundibugyo Ebola and clarify any Kenya–US arrangement.

Ebola Response & Court Clash: Hundreds of youths in Nanyuki, Laikipia, protested the planned US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base after Kenya’s High Court suspended the move and blocked foreign patients pending a hearing; US officials say the 50-bed unit was to be operational soon, while Health Minister Aden Duale insists it will serve “everyone,” and locals fear it could expose communities. Regional Health Pressure: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited DR Congo as suspected Ebola cases topped 1,000, with aid groups warning the outbreak is spreading faster than response teams can scale up; Africa CDC also flags the lack of licensed vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain and risky cross-border movement. Public Health Reality Check: In Congo, five Ebola patients recovered and were discharged, offering hope but underscoring the need for fast care and safe burial practices. School Safety Tragedy: In Homa Bay, a mother allegedly locked her children inside and set the house on fire, killing two and dying by suicide—police treat it as murder-suicide. Power Disruptions: Kenya Power scheduled maintenance causing eight-hour electricity interruptions in parts of Kakamega, Bungoma, Kisii and Meru on June 2.

Disability Care Expansion: Murang’a County launched a new occupational and speech therapy centre at Maragua Level Four Hospital, adding to three other county rehabilitation units to bring specialised disability support closer to families. Ebola Preparedness & Politics: Kenya’s Ebola quarantine facility plan for Americans remains a flashpoint, with church leaders warning it could pose a public health risk and calling for wider consultations after a court temporarily halted the project; Kenya also flags high-risk border counties and the EAC moves to coordinate emergency health ministers’ talks. School Fire Fallout: Families of Utumishi Girls fire victims in Gilgil face delays as DNA identification for all 16 bodies is completed before release for burial, while authorities continue post-mortems and investigations into safety lapses. NTDs Funding Pressure: Bungoma County is working to sustain neglected tropical diseases interventions despite dwindling donor support, aiming to keep last-mile treatment on track toward elimination targets. Rural Health Access: In Siaya, “Boda Girls” are expanding women-led motorcycle transport and outreach to help patients reach clinics and receive care faster. Workplace Safety Push: A public sector workplace protection conference urged stronger rules and standards to prevent harm and improve reporting and redress for workers.

Ebola Watch (Kenya & region): Kenya has flagged 25 counties as high risk for Ebola, with all tested samples from EVD alerts so far returning negative, as the DRC outbreak (Bundibugyo strain) keeps surging with over 1,000 suspected cases and hundreds of suspected deaths. Courtroom & biosecurity debate: Kenya’s High Court has temporarily halted the planned US Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, while doctors’ groups warn the move could pose a biosecurity threat and lack local diagnostic capacity. Regional coordination: East African Community health ministers will hold an emergency virtual meeting to align cross-border surveillance and response. Digital health push: A cloud deployment using AWS Outposts is helping thousands of Kenyan facilities access KenyaEMR faster while keeping sensitive data local. School tragedy update: Investigators say CCTV forensics linked seven students to the Utumishi Girls dormitory fire that killed 16, as police arrests continue. Health financing: Social Health Authority paid Sh12.74bn to providers in May, with SHIF taking the largest share. Nutrition milestone: Food4Education says it has hit 200 million meals served, supporting school feeding across Kenya.

Ebola Surge in DR Congo: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus visited Bunia as confirmed cases in eastern DRC nearly doubled to 225, with 1,028 suspected cases and over 220 suspected deaths; WHO says the outbreak can be stopped while communities are urged to lead response. Kenya Border Readiness: Kenya designated JKIA Gate 16 for high-risk arrivals, set up isolation points and online self-check forms, and expanded mandatory screening to 10 neighbouring states as part of intensified surveillance. Court vs US Ebola Plan: Kenya’s High Court temporarily halted a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility for Americans, prompting calls for transparency and public participation from doctors’ unions. School Fire Aftermath: In Gilgil, families continue identifying victims after the Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory blaze that killed 16; police arrested eight students over suspected arson, while KNH treated survivors and Mike Sonko pledged support. Medical Regulation: KMPDC opened an inquiry into a death after an alleged surgery at an unregistered Trans Nzoia facility, warning of disciplinary action. Public Safety & Health: NTSA told motorists to update contact details ahead of new traffic offences from June 1; IPOA also probed deaths linked to May fuel protest crackdowns.

Ebola Fallout: Kenya’s High Court temporarily halted a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, blocking entry for anyone exposed or infected while petitions are heard; the US says it’s engaging authorities and remains optimistic. DRC Outbreak Pressure: WHO chief Tedros arrived in Congo as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak worsens, with reports of hundreds of suspected cases and deaths and continued challenges from insecurity and community resistance. US Response in Flux: Washington pledged fresh support for Kenya’s preparedness (including $13.5m) and had planned to quarantine Americans exposed to Ebola, but court orders and public backlash have stalled implementation. School Fire Tragedy: Eight students were arrested over suspected arson in the Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire that killed 16 and injured dozens, as families demand accountability and safety checks. Tobacco Control: Ahead of World No Tobacco Day, Kenya was ranked low on readiness for a smoke-free future, with experts warning that nicotine and tobacco products are still being marketed to young people. Maternal Health Push: President Ruto launched the EWENE acceleration plan, promising more funding for maternal and newborn care, including premiums and supplies, plus recruitment of nurses and midwives. Public Health Watch: WHO says Ebola can be stopped, while residents are also urged to stay alert on other outbreaks like mpox.

Ebola Response in Focus: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus says the Congo outbreak “can be stopped” but warns it’s “very complex,” citing displacement, food insecurity and delays in identifying the virus as suspected cases climb to 906 and suspected deaths to 223. Kenya Border Readiness: President Ruto says Kenya has intensified Ebola surveillance and screening at 26 entry points, with 58,000+ travelers checked and all suspected cases testing negative so far, alongside 17 isolation centres nationwide. Court Blocks US Ebola Plan: Kenya’s High Court temporarily suspended a US-backed 50-bed Ebola quarantine facility for Americans in Kenya after petitions by the Katiba Institute and the Kenya Law Society, with hearings set for June 2. School Safety Shock: Police arrested eight female students over a suspected arson attack at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil that killed 16 and injured 79, as investigators review CCTV and witnesses and officials cite safety failures like a locked exit door. Local Health Support: Vihiga County received life-saving medical equipment donations, including ultrasound and GeneXpert machines, to strengthen referral hospital services.

School Fire Tragedy: Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire in Gilgil, Nakuru has killed 16 students and injured 79, with 71 discharged and 7 still admitted as investigations probe possible arson and whether safety procedures were followed. Ebola Response Politics: Kenya has approved a US-linked Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base for Americans exposed to the DRC outbreak, but the High Court issued conservatory orders blocking the centre’s establishment and entry of exposed/infected persons pending a case by Katiba Institute. US Quarantine Plan: US officials say a 50-bed field hospital quarantine unit will open Friday, with US public health staff and plans to expand, while insisting no Ebola cases will be allowed into the US. Ebola Alarm: Aid groups warn the DRC outbreak could become “deadliest on record” without urgent action as cases surge past 1,000 and WHO says the outbreak can be stopped, urging neighbours and even ceasefires to help responders. Maternal Health Push: Ruto launched the EWENE acceleration plan (2026-2028), adding Ksh4bn to SHA premiums for pregnant women, Ksh1bn for KEMSA commodities, Ksh2.5bn for family planning, and recruiting 5,000 nurses and midwives.

Ebola Response in Kenya: Kenya has approved a U.S. request to set up an Ebola quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia, with plans to keep exposed Americans in Kenya rather than bring symptomatic patients back to the U.S., as WHO warns the DRC outbreak is outpacing response. WHO Push for Ceasefire: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus is in Congo urging warring parties to declare a ceasefire so health workers can reach communities and break fear and misinformation. DRC Outbreak Escalates: Suspected Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo have surged past 1,000, with hundreds of suspected deaths, prompting border closures and tighter travel rules across the region. Local Health Worker Backlash: Kenya’s KMPDU has opposed the proposed U.S. facility, calling for transparency and warning Kenya could be used as a “containment colony.” School Fire Tragedy: In Gilgil, Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire killed at least 16 students and injured dozens, with investigations ongoing into the cause.