Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope and a transformative figure in the modern Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
His death was confirmed by the Vatican in the early hours of April 21, 2025.
Revered for his humility, progressive leadership, and tireless advocacy for social justice, Pope Francis made a lasting impression around the world, including in Kenya, where he visited in November 2015.
The late Pontiff reinforced messages of peace, environmental responsibility, and social justice.
When he arrived in Kenya on November 25, 2015, he was treated to a warm reception by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, who received him at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Uhuru would later host him at State House, where he, alongside other dignitaries, including the late former Presidents Daniel Arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, interacted with the Pope.
Leaders hailed his visit as a pivotal moment that Kenyans were privileged to witness.
Pope Francis would then later address Kenyan authorities and members of the diplomatic corps, urging them to work for peace, reconciliation, forgiveness, and healing.
On his second day, he participated in an interfaith dialogue, promoting faith and unity among different religious communities.
He also met with clergy members and seminarians at St. Mary’s School, encouraging them in their spiritual duties.
Celebrations by the Holy Father during an open-air Holy Mass at the University of Nairobi were attended by thousands of Kenyan Catholics, marking one of his most iconic moments, where he emphasised themes of peace and unity.
During his final day, Pope Francis visited the Kangemi neighbourhood in Nairobi, where he spoke out against urban poverty and denounced the “grave injustice” of social exclusion.
He criticised the systemic neglect of the poor and urged for inclusive cities that serve all citizens equally.
He went on to engage with thousands of young people at Kasarani Stadium, calling on them to be the voice of change and transformation.
This would mark the end of his visit, with a farewell ceremony at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport before departing for Uganda in continuation of his historic African trip.
The religious leader had been battling health problems in the past several weeks.
A section of political leaders has since mourned him, terming his demise a blow to the religious fraternity.
“We join the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. This is a big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world. Pope Francis will be remembered for a life dedicated to serving the Lord, the Church, and humanity,” President William Ruto said.
“He exemplified servant leadership through his humility, his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable. His strong ethical and moral convictions inspired millions across the world, regardless of faith or background. May his soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said:
"The Holy Father has left a big gap in the Church and the world. His contribution to Catholicism remains strong. My deepest sympathies to the Catholic faithful in Kenya and the world."
"We will remember him strongly as one of the Popes who visited Kenya during his Papacy and prayed for our nation often. May Papa Francis rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon him.”
