Protests Against U.S. Ebola Center in Kenya Turn Deadly

Protests in Nanyuki, Kenya, turned violent on Tuesday, resulting in the death of one man and injuries to several others as demonstrators clashed with police. The protests were against a U.S.

Ebola quarantine center being established in the town, which is near the Laikipia air base. Local residents expressed concerns about the potential introduction of Ebola carriers into the country, especially as Kenya faces a major outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The police responded with tear gas and water cannons, and gunshots were reported during the unrest. Hussein Khalid, director of the NGO Vocal Africa, confirmed the death of a man shot in the head.

Protests have continued despite a temporary pause in construction ordered by Kenya's High Court. President William Ruto's government has pledged to continue the facility's development, citing a $13.5 million aid commitment from the U.S. for Kenya's Ebola preparedness efforts.

Local politicians and residents have voiced strong opposition, fearing the quarantine center will negatively impact tourism.