Catholic faithful across Kenya observed Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the Lenten season with prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Worshippers attended Masses at locations like the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi to receive the imposition of ashes.

• Rev. Fr. Michael Ndichu urged believers to view Lent as a period of deep internal reflection and honest repentance, rather than a mere ritual.
• The ashes symbolize human fragility and a call to spiritual renewal, reminding Christians of their origin from dust and serving as a journey toward Easter.
• This year's Lenten season theme is "Building a Just, Peaceful and United Kenya; Upholding Equity and Human Dignity," encouraging reflection on national challenges such as leadership failures, economic hardship, election-related violence, and environmental destruction.