The funding is part of a wider assistance package that has already seen Washington provide $112 million in bilateral support to countries in the region to enhance disease surveillance, emergency response systems, and public health coordination.
The announcement comes amid growing concern over Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, which have prompted increased vigilance among neighbouring countries, including Kenya.
According to the US government, the new funding will be directed toward improving Kenya’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to potential Ebola cases.
The support is expected to strengthen early warning systems, laboratory testing capabilities, and rapid response mechanisms in the event of an outbreak.
Health authorities in Kenya have been on alert following reports of infections in neighbouring countries, with government agencies intensifying surveillance at border points, health facilities, and high-risk areas.
The US support is also expected to enhance training for healthcare workers, improve infection prevention and control measures, and boost public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities on Ebola symptoms and prevention.
Officials say the regional approach is necessary due to the highly contagious nature of the virus and the ease of cross-border movement within East Africa. Strengthening coordination between countries is seen as a critical step in preventing the spread of the disease.
The funding package forms part of long-standing cooperation between Kenya and the United States in the health sector, particularly in areas of disease control, epidemic response, and health system strengthening.
Over the years, the US has supported Kenya in managing outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, COVID-19, and other infectious conditions through technical assistance, funding, and capacity-building programs.
The latest commitment underscores continued international support for Kenya’s public health system at a time when regional preparedness remains a key priority for governments and health agencies.
Authorities have emphasized that while no Ebola cases have been reported in Kenya, vigilance remains essential due to the proximity of affected regions and the potential for cross-border transmission.
The Kenyan government has in recent weeks increased coordination efforts among health agencies, security teams, and county governments to ensure rapid response capability in case of any suspected infections.