President William Ruto has arrived in Rome, Italy, to join Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula and other world leaders for the funeral of Pope Francis.
The burial is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
President Ruto landed in Rome on Thursday evening, April 24, where he was received by officials from the Vatican and the Kenyan embassy.
Speaker Wetang’ula, who arrived earlier in the day, welcomed the President at the venue.
The two leaders are representing the government and the people of Kenya during this historic and emotional event.
The funeral is expected to bring together thousands of Catholic faithful, global leaders, and religious figures from every part of the world.
Pope Francis, who passed away last week, is remembered for his message of peace, compassion, and justice.
Speaking before leaving Nairobi, President Ruto said Pope Francis was a moral voice to the world.
“He was a humble servant of God who reminded us to care for the poor, protect the planet, and treat each other with respect and love,” Ruto said.
After arriving in Rome, Ruto and Wetang’ula signed the official condolence book and met with senior church leaders.
They conveyed Kenya’s condolences and shared a message of unity and peace with the Vatican.
Wetang’ula said it was a great honour to stand with the President in representing Kenya at such a significant global moment.
“This is a time to reflect on the values Pope Francis taught us—tolerance, unity, and compassion,” he said.
Preparations for the funeral are in the final stages, with thousands of mourners already gathered in the Vatican.
Large video screens and prayer stations have been set up across St Peter’s Square to accommodate the huge crowd.
Pope Francis made history as the first Pope from the Global South. His leadership inspired many across the world, including those outside the Catholic Church.
As the world prepares to say farewell, Kenya stands in solidarity with millions who were touched by Pope Francis’ humble life and strong voice for peace.
By Newshub