President William Ruto and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula are leading Kenya’s official delegation to the Vatican, where world leaders have gathered to mourn and honour the late Pope Francis.
President Ruto arrived in Rome on Saturday morning where he was received by Wetangula who arrive on Friday. Pope Francis, who passed away Monday at the age of 88,after serving for 12 years is being remembered globally for his humility, progressive leadership, and commitment to social justice.
Security is tight in and around Vatican City as tens of thousands of mourners and dignitaries from every continent converge for the funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. The ceremony is expected to over 150 heads of state and government, a testament to Pope Francis’ global impact.
For Kenya’s Catholic community which makes up about a third of the nation’s population the Pope’s death has been a deeply emotional moment. Churches across the country have been holding special Masses in his memory, while social media has been flooded with tributes from the faithful.
Pope Francis held a special place in the hearts of many Kenyans following his 2015 visit, where he championed issues such as environmental conservation, youth empowerment, peace, and the fight against inequality. His messages continue to resonate deeply in Kenya and across Africa.
The Pope’s wooden and zinc coffin, was sealed on Friday evening in a private ceremony, attended by Vatican officials and some of the Pope’s family members.
The Pope will be burried in Santa Maria Maggiore. Heis the first pontiff in more than a century not to be buried in the grottoes beneath St. Peters Basilica.
