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Duale Rallies Support for Madrassas, Assures Tana River Residents on Ebola Preparedness

By Ahmed Salat Ali | AARAN TV KE 

 Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening healthcare services and safeguarding the country against potential Ebola outbreaks, while also championing investment in Islamic education.

Speaking during a resource mobilization drive at Darul Hikma Grounds in Bura, Tana River County, Duale presided over a fundraising event in support of Darul Hikma and Taqwa Madrassas, aimed at improving learning infrastructure, acquiring educational materials, and enhancing religious education for learners in the region.

The Cabinet Secretary underscored the critical role madrassas play in shaping responsible citizens and instilling strong moral values among young people.

"Madrassas are vital institutions that nurture discipline, integrity and moral responsibility among our youth, complementing the broader national education system," Duale said.

Addressing public concerns over the Ebola situation in the region, the CS assured residents that Kenya remains fully prepared to prevent and respond to any potential outbreak.

"Our surveillance and emergency preparedness systems remain on high alert. So far, all 67 individuals tested for Ebola have returned negative results, and more than 88,000 travellers have been screened at various points of entry across the country," he stated.

Duale further revealed that key health facilities, including Kenyatta National Hospital, have established isolation units to handle any suspected cases. He added that over 800 healthcare workers have undergone specialized training to strengthen the country's readiness.

On healthcare development in Tana River County, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted significant progress under the government's universal health coverage agenda. He noted that 107,583 residents have so far registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) against a target population of 315,872.

He also cited major investments in health infrastructure, including the establishment of a fully equipped blood bank at Hola County Referral Hospital and the provision of maternal and newborn care equipment to 26 health facilities across the county, among them a fully operational maternity unit.

Duale also appealed for harmony between communities living along the Tana River–Kitui border, urging residents to embrace peaceful coexistence and dialogue.

"Good neighbours are a blessing. Peace, mutual respect and cooperation are the foundation of sustainable development and prosperity for our communities," he said.

The event brought together a host of leaders, religious scholars and residents. Among those in attendance were Danson Mungatana, Bura MP Yakub Adow, Lagdera MP Abdikadir Hussein, Lafey MP Mohamed Abdikheir and Garsen MP Ali Wario.

The gathering concluded with renewed calls for community-driven development initiatives and sustained support for both education and healthcare programmes across the region.

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