The 1998 Kenyan embassy bombings had a profound impact on the lives of the victims. Many people were left with permanent disabilities that have made it difficult to live independently.
They also face discrimination and social isolation. Thanks to various organizations providing them with support through rehabilitation services, education, and employment opportunities.
Catherine Bwire a victim of the tragic incident was left with a visual disability which she told media that has denied her the privilege of seeing the face of her daughter who she was pregnant with on the fateful day.
Today, August 7, 2023, as the country marks the 25th anniversary of the bomb blast tragedy, it is important to remember the victims and the impact that the attacks had on their lives. We should also remember the importance of supporting people with disabilities in Kenya and around the world.
Even as the country commemorates the day, news reports indicate that the victims are yet to be compensated.
However, on August 5, 2023, a Senate Ad-hoc committee joined the survivors for a prayer session at the memorial park and assured them that their compensation is being pushed.
About the Incident
On August 7, 1998, two truck bombs exploded at the U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The attacks were carried out by al-Qaeda, a terrorist organization led by Osama bin Laden.
The bomb in Nairobi exploded at 10:30 a.m. local time. The truck was parked outside the embassy, and it was filled with 1,500 pounds of TNT.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the embassy building and the surrounding area. The blast also killed 213 people, including 12 Americans, and injured over 4,500 others.
The bomb in Dar es Salaam exploded at 10:45 a.m. local time. The truck was parked outside the embassy annex, and it was filled with 800 pounds of TNT.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the annex building and surrounding area. The blast also killed 11 people and injured over 85 others.