National Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness and Response Taskforce Inaugural meeting
Nairobi , 2026 Kenya has strengthened its preparedness to prevent and respond to Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) as the National Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness and Response Taskforce held its inaugural meeting.
Speaking during the meeting, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said the Taskforce will provide strategic leadership and coordination to ensure the country remains vigilant and ready to respond to any potential Ebola threat. She noted that although Kenya has not recorded an Ebola outbreak, its strategic location, extensive cross border movement and regional connectivity require sustained preparedness and a coordinated national response.
The multi sectoral Taskforce brings together key government ministries, departments and agencies, county governments, development partners, security agencies and technical experts to strengthen surveillance, laboratory capacity, infection prevention and control, risk communication, case management, emergency coordination and cross border collaboration. Its work will also ensure the timely mobilization of resources and harmonized implementation of preparedness activities across all levels of government.
The PS called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard public health, strengthen health security and build resilient systems capable of responding effectively to public health emergencies.
The Taskforce is expected to oversee the implementation of Kenya’s Ebola preparedness framework, monitor progress, identify emerging risks and provide strategic guidance to ensure the country remains ready to protect lives and maintain essential health services in the event of an outbreak.