Pope Francis has condoled with Kenya after a fire tragedy claimed at least 21 lives of young learners.
The Catholic apostolic nunciature in Nairobi addressed the papal message to President William Ruto through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Pope said he was deeply heartbroken following the tragedy that was reported on Thursday night, September 5.
He prayed for comfort to the bereaved and committed the souls of the departed to eternal peace.
The Pope appreciated the efforts of the humanitarian agencies and other responders to offer support to the bereaved.
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"His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to be informed of the loss of the young lives that occurred during a fire at the Hillside Endarasha Academy in the county of Nyeri and expresses his spiritual closeness to all who are suffering the effects of this calamity, especially the injured and the families who grieve. He commends the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God and offers his prayers for the personnel and the civil authorities who continue to provide assistance. upon all, the holy father invokes the lord's blessings of strength, peace, and consolation," read the communique from the nuncio.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura indicated that 48 boys were still missing two days into the tragedy.
The ill-fated dormitory had housed 156 male learners when the tragedy hit.
President William Ruto ordered a thorough investigation following the fire incident.
In a statement on Friday, September 6, the Head of State said that anyone responsible for the incident would be held accountable.
The president further condoled with the families of the pupils who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries.
He also proclaimed that the nation would observe three days of mourning after the tragedy.
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