Kiharu Member of Parliament (MP) Ndindi Nyoro has castigated plans to establish an Ebola research and response centre in Kenya by the American government.
The legislator has observed that most Kenyans are uncomfortable with the proposal, due to the risks associated with the deadly disease.
Speaking Thursday at Mugoiri Secondary School during a students’ career fair attended by learners from Kahuro Sub-county, Nyoro said the country should exercise caution and avoid exposing citizens to health risks.
The MP argued that facilities dealing with Ebola should preferably be located in countries where the disease is endemic or where outbreaks had historically occurred.
“Many Kenyans are against the establishment of such a centre in our country. Ebola is a dangerous disease, and we need to be very careful not to allow it into Kenya,” he said.
Nyoro expressed concern that Kenya may not be adequately prepared to handle a major Ebola outbreak.
He noted that while the country has made significant progress in strengthening its healthcare system, managing highly infectious diseases such as Ebola would require extensive preparedness and resources.
His remarks come amid public debate over reports that the Kenyan government is considering establishing an Ebola quarantine facility in the country in collaboration with the U.S. government.
The proposal has sparked mixed reactions with supporters citing the need for advanced disease surveillance and research, while critics have raised concerns about safety and public health risks.
Ebola is a severe and often fatal viral disease that primarily affects humans and primates.
According to global health agencies, outbreaks have largely occurred in parts of Central and West Africa with fatality rates varying depending on the strain and the effectiveness of medical intervention.
Beyond health matters, Nyoro also used the forum to address economic and education issues, revealing that he had submitted proposals to the National Assembly’s Finance Committee, aimed at reducing fuel prices and easing the cost of living for Kenyans.
The legislator said lowering fuel costs would have a ripple effect on the economy by reducing transportation and production expenses, ultimately benefiting households across the country.
He also called for increased government funding for education, particularly through enhanced school capitation.
Nyoro noted that many public schools continue to face financial challenges due to inadequate funding affecting the quality of learning. “Education remains one of the most important investments a country can make. More resources should be allocated to support schools and ensure learners receive quality education,” he stated.
The MP further highlighted efforts being undertaken in Kiharu Constituency through the Masomo Bora programme, which seeks to increase the number of students from day secondary schools joining universities.
He said the initiative aims to triple university enrollment among learners from day schools by providing both academic support and financial assistance.
As part of the programme, students from Kiharu day secondary schools who secure university admission will receive Sh.10,000 from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to help with fees.
Each beneficiary will also receive an additional Sh. 5,000 as pocket money to ease their transition into higher learning institutions.
Nyoro said the programme is designed to ensure that students from humble backgrounds are not locked-out of university education due to financial constraints.
He encouraged learners to work hard in their studies and take advantage of the opportunities available to them through education support initiatives in the constituency.
The career fair brought together students, teachers and education stakeholders, with speakers encouraging learners to make informed career choices and remain focused on their academic goals.
by Bernard Munyao and Purity Mugo
