Pope’s visit offers Kenyans an opportunity to unite- Kibaki

Former President Mwai Kibaki has termed the visit by Pope Francis to Kenya as a turning point for Kenyans.

Kibaki urged Kenyans to appreciate their country and celebrate their God-given blessings.

Kibaki made the remarks on Friday evening during a fundraising dinner towards preparations for the visit by the Pope later this month.

The Former President observed that Kenyans should not take for granted their shared character as by nature, they are a hospitable and affable people.

Kibaki noted that the visit by the Holy Father affirms the key role the country plays as a gateway not only for the region but also for the continent.

“This exceptional visit by Pope Francis presents us with a unique opportunity to appreciate our country, region and continent afresh. This is an opportunity to appreciate our motherland and reaffirm our common destiny,” said Kibaki.

He added that besides being one of the three countries privileged to host the Holy Father in his maiden visit to Africa, Kenya will be his first stop thus affirming her position as a gateway to Africa.

“Kenyans sometimes take our shared nature and character for granted. Perhaps we do not fully appreciate our ability to pick ourselves up and walk again whenever we trip.  Yet this is the attribute that makes us special,” stated Kibaki.

Kibaki noted that the Papal visit gives Kenyans an opportunity to reflect on the seamless integration of spiritual and human welfare as it gives us a chance to appreciate how service to humanity and common good enhance the collective purpose.

He added the dinner that brought different Kenyans together for one purpose, is an illustration of the call to unity that the Holy Father always advocates for.

He also pointed out that Kenyans should learn to listen to each other more and work closely with one another in order to tackle the various challenges facing the country and harness the many blessings they enjoy for a brighter shared future.

“Even as we contend with our share of challenges and as we whine, shove and push, it is always proper to endeavor to harness the many blessings that decorate our horizon. To do so gainfully, we must learn to listen to each other more and work with one another closely for a brighter shared future,” said Kibaki.

“As we prepare to receive the Pope, let us be kinder to ourselves and count our blessings a little more often. Let us also celebrate our resilience and tenacity and seek—against whatever odds—to create a fountain of peace, understating and prosperity in Africa,” he added.

Kibaki said Kenyans are accommodating enough to listen to and interrogate a wide range of ideas and options available to humankind in tolerance, mutual and reciprocal respect as well as appreciation to one another.

“I am glad that, during his notable visit to Africa, Pope Francis will meet and mingle with believers of varied faiths. This is a classic demonstration of how we must embrace the spirit of gracious coexistence to qualify for God’s bountiful blessings,” the retired President added.

Cardinal John Njue, the archbishop of Nairobi, described the visit as a “real blessing” for the Church and the nation.

The Cardinal added that  Kenyans will have an opportunity to reflect on the Pope’s  aspirations of selflessness, attention to the poor and the environment.

During the dinner, a total of Ksh 124,500,000 was raised.

Cardinal Njue revealed some of the money will be used to set up a service delivery activity in honour of the Pope.