FIRST BISHOP OF KAKAMEGA DIOCESE DIES

Retired Kakamega Diocese Bishop Emeritus Philip Sulumeti’s death was announced by the Diocese of Kakamega.

“This morning, it is with sadness that I communicate the passing of our beloved Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Philip Sulumeti at Nairobi Hospital last night at 11 pm,” Bishop Obanyi said.

Bishop Obanyi called on clergy, religious, and the wider community to remember him in prayers and masses.

“I request you to keep him in prayers, remembering him in the masses, as we begin making arrangements for his burial, which shall be communicated in due course,” Bishop Obanyi stated.

“To all the people of God of Kakamega, relatives and friends, we express our condolences and pledge our prayerful accompaniment during these difficult moments.”

Arrangements for his burial are underway.

Born on August 15, 1937, in Busia County, Sulumeti was ordained a priest in 1966 and went on to serve the Church in various capacities including as Auxiliary Bishop and Bishop of Kisumu before becoming the pioneer Bishop of Kakamega in 1978.

He led the Kakamega Diocese until his retirement in 2014.

Known for his humility, commitment, and hands-on approach, Sulumeti played a significant role in education, community development, and promoting peace and good governance within his diocese and the wider region.

His leadership spanned nearly five decades, during which he championed Catholic sponsored schools, agricultural initiatives, and community health programs.

He was respected for uniting clergy, laity, and local leaders to foster cohesion and progress.

Bishop Sulumeti leaves behind a strong legacy of service and development, with many church and community institutions continuing to benefit from his enduring influence.

His passing marks the end of a distinguished chapter in Kenya’s ecclesiastical history, and he is mourned by the people of Kakamega and the Catholic community at large