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In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, there are growing concerns that extremist groups like al-Shabaab, which has ties to al-Qaeda, may stage something similar in Kenya during Pope Francis’ visit. Kenya’s Defense Forces are increasing security in preparation for the visit.
People are remembering the April terrorist attack in Kenya
Some are comparing Paris to an attack in Kenya earlier this year. On April 2, 2015, an extremist gunman killed 147 people and injured 79 at Garissa University College. When he saw what was happening in Paris, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta stated that Kenya stands with France. Kenya has been devastated by several terrorist attacks; therefore, President Kenyatta is ready to aid France and its allies in fighting ISIS.
“Today, as in the years past, the people and the government of Kenya stand with France at a moment in which our common humanity has been attacked in Paris by terrorists, and innocent civilians murdered in cold blood,” he said in a statement. “We stand with them, in sorrow for their losses, but also with resolve to join them in fighting terrorist organisations and networks until democracy and liberty can be free from their evil threat.”
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The Pope is visiting several African countries
On November 25, 2015, Pope Francis will begin a journey throughout Africa. His first stop is Kenya. His tour will begin with a welcoming ceremony in Nairobi and a meeting with President Kenyatta and other government officials. During the rest of the visit, he will meet with church officials in the city, visit the Kangemi neighborhood, meet youth at Kasarani Stadium, and give many public speeches along the way. After a farewell ceremony at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the Pope will leave for Uganda.
Kenyan authorities believe that al-Shabaab is seeking high profile targets
Inspector General Joseph Boinett is already strengthening the nation’s security, but he is calling on Kenyans to help while the pope is in the country.
“Whilst we the police have stepped up vigilance, we call on the public to exercise maximum level of alertness,” Boinnet said. “The same threat remains real in our country. I urge everyone to report any suspicious activity and/or persons to the police or any security agency for action,” he said.
Kenya has been striking back against the group
Kenya has launched an attack on al-Shabaab that has produced some results. Two months ago, security forces started an operation to clear the Boni Forest – which they have finally achieved. Forces found five different al-Shabaab camps within the forest and destroyed them. They also confiscated all of the weapons and turned them in to the government. But authorities are saying that the operation against the group could take three months longer than originally thought.
