China grants Kenya $2 million for Ebola preparedness, drought response

China has provided Kenya with a $2 million grant to strengthen Ebola preparedness and support drought response efforts in parts of the country most vulnerable to the two threats.

Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan and Kenya's National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo signed the handover certificate in Nairobi on Thursday, in a ceremony witnessed by Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, according to a statement by the Chinese embassy in Kenya.

Of the total amount, $1 million will go towards improving Ebola preparedness infrastructure in counties classified by the Kenyan government as being at high risk of the disease.

The funding, provided at the request of the Kenyan government, will support efforts to strengthen the country's ability to prevent, detect, and respond to potential outbreaks.

Kenya remains vulnerable to cross-border disease threats, making surveillance and emergency preparedness particularly important in high-risk areas.

It comes days after the East African country confirmed its first Ebola case following the death of a man who had traveled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo through Uganda.

The patient died at Nairobi Hospital on Monday after testing positive for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, prompting authorities to intensify surveillance and contact tracing to prevent further infections.

The other $1 million will support the government's response to drought, which continues to affect livelihoods in parts of the country, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.

Recurring dry spells have placed pressure on water supplies, livestock, and agricultural production, leaving many households vulnerable to food insecurity.

Speaking during the handover, Guo said the grant demonstrated China's solidarity with Kenya as the country works to address public health risks and the effects of drought.

"China's aid embodies the friendly sentiments held by the Chinese government and people toward the government and people of the Republic of Kenya," she said.

The assistance adds to cooperation between China and Kenya, whose longstanding partnership has expanded from infrastructure, trade, and investment to include healthcare, agriculture, and humanitarian support.