Survivors of 1998 bomb blast appeal for justice, compensation

Leah Wangui Karaba, a sister of one of the victims with a flower during the Consortium of August 7th 1998 Victims inaugural Thanksgiving prayers at the Bomb Blast Memorial Park, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Survivors of the 1998 bomb blast in Nairobi have appealed to the governments of Kenya and the United States to respond to their longstanding pleas for compensation, which they say they have not received 26 years after the tragedy.

The terrorist attack claimed the lives of over 200 people and left thousands injured.

Speaking during a prayer meeting held yesterday at Memorial Park, Nairobi, in remembrance of those who lost their lives, the Chairman of the August 7, 1998 Bomb Blast Victims Association, George Ngige, said many victims and survivors continue to live in unbearable conditions, with little or no support.

“Too many victims have perished in dire conditions while waiting for a resolution that remains out of reach. Families continue to wallow in hardship, enduring grief and facing an uncertain future,” said Ngige.

He added that in their ongoing fight for justice for the affected families and individuals, a court hearing has been scheduled for 10th April 2025 at the Milimani Law Courts.

“In our relentless fight for justice, we urgently call upon all victims and survivors to attend the upcoming court session on 8th April 2025 at Milimani Law Courts. This critical date has been specifically designated for our case, and a strong turnout will reinforce our unwavering demand for justice, which has remained elusive for 26 years,” he said.

Ngige urged all relevant stakeholders to take decisive action to ensure that justice and compensation are no longer delayed.

“As we await justice, we find strength in unity, sharing the little that we have just to hold on. Yet, it is an unbearable injustice that we must rely on these unsustainable efforts when funds specifically designated for terrorism victims exist, but remain out of reach,” he added.

Survivors also shared harrowing accounts of the challenges they have faced over the years. They called for justice to be served, lamenting that their fight has borne no fruit over the past 26 years.