Pope Francis leaves for Uganda

His Holiness Pope Francis left the country this afternoon after a landmark visit.

The pontiff – who headed to Uganda on the second leg of his first visit to Africa – was seen off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by President Uhuru Kenyatta and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta.

Deputy President William Ruto, Chief of Defence Forces General Samson Mwathethe and Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua were also at the airport to bid farewell to the Holy Father.

The Catholic Church was represented at the Papal departure ceremonies by the Church’s top brass led by the Pope’s Representative in Kenya Archbishop Charles Daniel Balvo and Nairobi Archbishop John Cardinal Njue.

The Pope’s departure ceremonies included a colourful guard of honour by a detachment of the Kenya Army and farewell songs by choirs and cultural troupes.

The plane carrying the pontiff departed Jomo Kenyatta International Airport shortly after 4 pm.

Via PSCU