Nanyuki Residents Clash with Police as Court Halts Construction Pending Legal Review

By Clarice Odhiambo.

NANYUKI, LAIKIPIA COUNTY — Tensions escalated in Nanyuki this week as hundreds of residents took to the streets to protest against plans to construct a quarantine and isolation facility in Laikipia County. The demonstrations led to clashes between protesters and police, disrupting business activities and traffic in parts of the town.

By midweek, large crowds had gathered along major roads, carrying placards and chanting slogans against the project. Police officers were deployed to maintain order as tensions rose between demonstrators and security personnel. Witnesses reported instances of pushing and confrontations, while tear gas was used to disperse sections of the crowd. Traffic came to a standstill along key routes, and many businesses closed their doors as the unrest continued throughout the day.

The proposed facility, reportedly funded by the United States, has become the centre of a growing public debate. Supporters say the project is intended to strengthen preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks and improve emergency health response capacity. However, many residents have expressed concern over the location of the facility, its intended use, and what they describe as a lack of adequate public consultation.

The facility would contain approximately 50 isolation beds and be staffed by personnel trained to manage severe infectious diseases. Critics, however, argue that the government and project partners have not provided sufficient information about the project and its potential impact on the local community.

The protests began early Tuesday morning when residents gathered in Nanyuki town centre to voice their opposition. As crowds grew larger, police moved in to secure public areas and protect nearby property. Several confrontations were reported during the demonstrations, although authorities had not released official figures regarding injuries or arrests by Tuesday evening.

The controversy has also attracted national political attention. Opposition leaders and civil society organizations have questioned the project’s approval process and are calling for greater transparency regarding its management, funding, and long-term implications for nearby communities. President William Ruto has defended the initiative, describing it as an important step toward strengthening Kenya’s preparedness for future disease outbreaks. Several government officials have echoed this position, arguing that the facility would meet international health standards and contribute to improving the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

The dispute has now moved to the courts. Construction of the facility was temporarily halted after the Katiba Institute filed a legal challenge seeking judicial review of the project’s approval process. The petition raises concerns about public participation, environmental considerations, and compliance with constitutional requirements.

For now, construction remains suspended as all parties await further directions from the court. Residents, government officials, project stakeholders, and civil society groups continue to closely monitor developments.