Kenyans support the US in its hour of need

The BBC's Ishbel Matheson said the scene was moving with a procession of church leaders heading the chorus of prayers, singing and clapping.

Friday's memorial service brought echoes of the US embassy attacks both in Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania in 1998.

Trauma

She said large crowds of Kenyans gathered to show their support for the untold number of people who are feared dead in the American carnage.

Over 200 Kenyans and 12 Tanzanians were killed and an estimated 5,000 were injured in the explosions in east Africa.

Our correspondent says Kenyans feel they know the grief and trauma of the Americans and the other nationals who have perished in the atrocities.

President Daniel arap Moi, who had asked Kenyans to join in prayers, said in a statement: "Terrorism is a cowardly and barbaric act that must stand condemned in the strongest terms by all people of goodwill."

African deaths

Bouquets of flowers and messages of condolences were left outside US consular buildings in a number of African countries.

Saudi Arabian dissident, Osama Bin Laden, has been named by the United States as the mastermind of the east African bombings.

US officials are also linking Bin Laden to Tuesday's attacks. But he has issued a statement denying any responsibility.

The leaders of a number of African nations have expressed their sympathy with the victims of the US attacks.

Moi condemns 'terrorist' act

But some militant Muslim groups have been celebrating, calling the attacks strikes against America's pro-Israel policy.

So far, three Africans have been confirmed dead and several others are missing in the horrific aircrafts attacks.