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President William Ruto has arrived in Rome, Italy, to join other world leaders and Catholic faithful in mourning the death of Pope Francis.
The Head of State touched down in the Italian capital early Saturday, ahead of the historic funeral ceremony set to be attended by millions from around the world.
President Ruto is among several world leaders who will pay their last respects to the late Pontiff, whose legacy of humility, compassion and commitment to social justice transformed the Catholic Church and inspired global action on issues such as poverty, climate change and peacebuilding.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, after a decade-long papacy marked by groundbreaking reforms and a tireless pursuit of unity within the church and beyond.
His death has triggered an outpouring of grief, with tributes pouring in from across religious, political and social spheres.
Speaking before his departure, President Ruto described Pope Francis as “a beacon of hope and a champion of the marginalised,” noting that his teachings transcended religious boundaries and deeply impacted humanity.
Kenya, a predominantly Christian nation with a strong Catholic following, has joined the global Catholic community in mourning the Pope’s passing.
Special Masses and prayer services have been held across the country in honour of his life and service.
Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Vatican, in a ceremony expected to attract dignitaries, clergy, and faithful from all corners of the globe.
President Ruto’s presence underscores Kenya’s solidarity with the global Catholic family and reaffirms the country’s shared commitment to the values Pope Francis championed during his lifetime.
