Pope Francis' three-day visit to Kenya has been confirmed and the global leader of the Catholic faithful will be in the country from November 25 to 27.
During his visit, the Pope will hold bilateral talks with President Uhuru Kenyatta before meeting senior government officials at the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) offices. While there, he will also address members of the diplomatic corps.
“The Holy Father comes to Kenya as the Vatican’s Head of State, and as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. This, therefore, is both a state and a pastoral visit,” said Government Spokesman Manoah Esipisu.
Pope Francis’ itinerary will include an inter-religious meeting with Christian, Muslim, Hindu and traditional leaders. He will also give a general address to Kenyans, meet with a number of young people, and celebrate Mass.
He is expected to visit Kenya, Uganda and Central African Republic in his maiden trip to Africa.
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The Vatican confirmed the visit in early September, saying the Pope had received invitations from the three heads of state as well as local bishops. However, details of his visit had remained scanty.
Security was the biggest threat to his Kenyan visit, with the Vatican expressing concern following a number of attacks orchestrated by Al-Shabaab militants.
Yesterday, Mr Esipisu said the Pope's visit will cap a remarkable year in the history of Kenya’s foreign relations following visits by high profile leaders. United States President Barack Obama, Italy’s Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and US Secretary of State John Kerry have been in the country in previous months. Kenya also hosted the World Trade Organisation ministerial conference that saw delegates from across the globe converge to discuss international trade.
The Pope will join the list of leaders who have held talks with the Government on matters of security, cohesion and development.
“Kenya is deeply honoured to be the country where he will make his first landing on the continent,” the spokesman said.
Pope Francis will be the second pope to visit Kenya. Pope John Paul II visited in 1985 and also held talks with government officials and then President Daniel arap Moi.
Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinett had earlier assured Kenyans that roads would not be closed during the Pope’s visit.
Mr Boinett had called on all Kenyans to go to the roads and welcome Pope Francis, assuring them that unlike during Obama’s visit, no business would be affected. He said a team to plan the Pope’s visit had been set up.
Pope Francis will leave for Uganda on November 27 then head to the Central African Republic on November 29.
