King Charles, Queen Camilla rally behind Kenya flood victims

President William Ruto with Britain's King Charles III at Statehouse Nairobi during the Monarchs state visit to Kenya in November 2023. [Standard, File]

Britain's King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla have expressed their solidarity with the Kenyan people affected by the ongoing floods in a letter addressed to President William Ruto, published online by the UK Embassy in Kenya.

"It was with great concern that my wife and I learned recently of the terrible flooding that has ravaged Kenya and the region, and which continues to impact so many of your people. We can only begin to imagine the anguish of those who have lost loved ones and seen their livelihoods devastated," reads the note.

The royal couple also extended gratitude to essential workers actively involved in managing the situation.

Furthermore, King Charles stressed the importance of unity in addressing the adverse effects of climate change, highlighting the "increased unpredictability and violence of weather systems."

According to the King Charles III, addressing climate change and biodiversity loss is a responsibility shared by all, as it directly impacts the quality of life and survival of humanity.

The King has been a prominent advocate for climate action, delivering several addresses on the topic.

The King and Queen visited Kenya in November 2023, strengthening the relationship between the two countries following their coronation in June.

Their message comes amid reports of 228 fatalities from floods and heavy rains across the country. Official government data indicates that 223,198 people have been directly affected, with 42,526 households displaced.