President William Ruto attended the consecration ceremony of Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya's (ACK) Katakwa Diocese, held in Amagoro, Busia County.
Ekuru succeeds Rt. Reverend John Okude, who retired on February 28, 2026, after reaching the mandatory retirement age. The new bishop was elected by the Provincial Electoral College following a closely contested vote.
The 23-member Electoral College concluded the election in the second round after over two hours of deliberation, with Ekuru prevailing over fellow candidates Ven. Moses Idewa and Rev. Cain Emojong. The announcement was met with celebratory songs from the college members.
Background of Katakwa Diocese Leadership
- Katakwa Diocese was established in 1991, having been carved out from the Nambale Diocese.
- Rt. Rev. Eliud Okiring served as the first bishop from 1991 until 2006.
- Rt. Rev. Zakayo Epus led the diocese from 2006 to 2015.
- Rt. Rev. John Okude took over in 2016 and served until his retirement in 2026.
Vitalis Job Ekuru now assumes leadership as the fourth bishop, continuing the diocese's mission in the region.