By Lauryne Akoth
Pope Francis has conveyed his sympathy for Kennyans affected by floods.
Sharing through his X page, the pope called for prayer for the individuals affected in Kenya. He also noted that he and the rest of the world would stand in solidarity with the country supporting Kenyans through prayer.
“I am spiritually close to the people of Kenya at this time when a severe flood has claimed many lives and destroyed vast areas. Let us pray together for all those who suffer the effects of this natural disaster,” said the pope.
His message arrives amidst a national disaster, as heavy rains wreak havoc in multiple regions of the country. The most recent tragedy involves flash floods, which have claimed the lives of over 48 people in Mai Mahiu.
The incident occurred on Monday, 29th April after heavy flash floods wiped out an entire village in Mai Mahiu. The homes downhill were washed away after a dam in Kijabe burst its banks following heavy rainfall on Sunday, 28th April.
Several counties have been affected with Nairobi county being the worst hit.
Read More: “91 Missing, 30,214 Households Displaced,” Government’s Spokesperson
The current national death toll from floods is 179, with 90 individuals reported missing. Furthermore, 31,341 households have been displaced, impacting approximately 195,011 individuals.