Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Philip Anyolo Sulumeti, a towering figure in Kenya’s Catholic Church and a pillar of faith in Western Kenya, has passed away.
The Catholic Diocese of Kakamega confirmed that the veteran cleric died on November 9, 2025, at 11 p.m. while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital.
In a statement, Kakamega Diocese Bishop Joseph Obanyi expressed deep sorrow over the loss and called on the faithful to remember the late bishop in their prayers as funeral preparations get underway.
“I request you to keep him in your prayers, remembering him in the masses, as we begin making arrangements for his burial, which shall be communicated in due course,” Bishop Obanyi said.
“To all the people of God in Kakamega, relatives, and friends, we express our heartfelt condolences and assure you of our prayerful support during this difficult time.”
Bishop Sulumeti’s death marks the close of a remarkable chapter in Kenya’s ecclesiastical history one defined by nearly five decades of service, devotion, and leadership that deeply influenced the spiritual and social life of the region.
Born on August 15, 1937, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Kisumu on January 6, 1966. His leadership journey began six years later when he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Kisumu and Titular Bishop of Urci, receiving episcopal ordination on August 20, 1972.
In December 1976, he succeeded Bishop Joannes de Reeper of the Mill Hill Missionaries as Bishop of Kisumu. Two years later, on February 28, 1978, Pope Paul VI appointed him the first Bishop of Kakamega a role he would hold with steadfast faith and humility for decades.
Bishop Sulumeti’s tenure was marked by his tireless efforts to uplift communities spiritually and socially. Known for his calm demeanor, simplicity, and pastoral presence, he championed education, health, and development programs that transformed lives across Western Kenya.
His passing leaves a void not only in the Diocese of Kakamega but also in the wider Kenyan Church, where he will be remembered as a shepherd of integrity, compassion, and enduring faith.
