Bishop Emeritus Philip Anyolo Sulumeti Dies at 88

Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Philip Anyolo Sulumeti has died at the age of 88.

He passed away on November 9, 2025, at 11 p.m. while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

The Bishop of Kakamega, Joseph Obanyi Sagwe, confirmed his death and asked the faithful to keep the late bishop in their prayers.

“We express our condolences to all the people of God of Kakamega, relatives, and friends, and we assure them of our prayers during this difficult moment. May the soul of His servant Philip Sulumeti rest in peace. Amen,” Sagwe said in a statement.

Burial arrangements will be announced later.

Born in 1937, Sulumeti was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Kisumu on January 6, 1966.

His rise in Church leadership began in 1972 when he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Kisumu. He was ordained bishop on August 20 the same year, and in December 1976, he became Bishop of Kisumu.

On February 28, 1978, he was appointed the first Bishop of the newly established Diocese of Kakamega. He served in the position for decades, guiding the faithful with humility and dedication.

During his time as bishop, Sulumeti championed education, the expansion of Catholic-sponsored schools, and equal learning opportunities for both boys and girls. He also supported agriculture, self-help groups, community health initiatives, and other development programs aimed at improving lives.

He was widely respected for his calm leadership and strong voice in promoting peace, unity, dignity, and good governance.

Bishop Sulumeti retired on December 5, 2014.