Scottish Catholic Observer

Amid security concerns over heightened tensions in the region and globally, the Holy Father’s Alitalia aeroplane arrived at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta airport just after lunchtime—after a seven-hour flight from Italy—for the first stage of the his visit that also take in Uganda and Central African Republic.

The Pope called for peace, saying conflict and terrorism ‘feed on fear, mistrust, and the despair born of poverty and frustration.’

When asked about security concerns, the Pope said with a smile: “To tell you the truth, the only thing I’m concerned about is the mosquitoes!”

President Uhuru Kenyatta (above) and Nairobi’s Governor Evans Kidero, greeted the Holy father upon his arrival before taking him to a state reception.

—Full text of Pope’s first speech in Kenya, click here.