The Catholic Church in Kenya is mourning the death of Bishop Emeritus Philip Sulumeti of the Kakamega Diocese.
The long-serving cleric passed away on Sunday November 9, 2025 at night while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital, aged 86.
The Catholic Diocese of Kakamega confirmed the passing of its Bishop Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Philip Sulumeti, who died at around 11 p.m.
Bishop Joseph Obanyi described him as a devoted servant of God and a pillar of faith whose leadership helped shape the Catholic Church in Western Kenya.
Born in 1939, Bishop Sulumeti was ordained a priest in 1966 for the Diocese of Kisumu. When the Diocese of Kakamega was created in 1978, he became its first bishop, a position he held for 36 years until his retirement in 2014.
While he will be remembered for his humility and dedication to pastoral service, Bishop Sulumeti’s greatest national legacy lies in his contribution to the making of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution.
As part of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) delegation to the Constitution of Kenya Review Process, Bishop Sulumeti played a crucial role in representing the moral and social concerns of the Church during one of the most defining moments in Kenya’s history.
He participated in national dialogue, public hearings, and civic education forums, consistently advocating for a people-centered constitution anchored on Christian values, human dignity, social justice, family protection, and the sanctity of life.
His firm yet reconciliatory approach helped bridge divides between the Church, state, and civil society, ensuring that moral principles and human rights were reflected in the final document.
Colleagues within the episcopate often described him as a voice of moderation and wisdom who believed that a just and peaceful nation could only be built on ethical leadership and unity.
Beyond his constitutional role, Bishop Sulumeti spearheaded evangelization and development initiatives across Western Kenya, establishing numerous schools, health facilities, and parishes that continue to serve local communities.
He also served as Vice Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops and chaired several commissions promoting justice, peace, and national cohesion.
Even after retirement, he remained a guiding voice of unity and counsel within the Church and society. His episcopal motto, Ut Unum Sint, “That They May Be One” captured his lifelong pursuit of harmony in both faith and governance.
Funeral preparations are underway, with the Diocese expected to release the full program in the coming days.
