New Makueni Catholic Bishop to be installed Saturday

Makueni

Saturday September 30, 2023

KNA by Patrick Nyakundi

The coronation of Rev. Paul Kariuki as the new Catholic Diocese of Wote Bishop is set for today Saturday September 30 at Unoa Grounds in Wote Town.

Rev. Kariuki becomes the first Bishop of Wote Diocese that was created out of Machakos Diocese in July 2023 by Pope Francis.

Kariuki was received on Friday by the Catholic faithful and Makueni leaders at St. Mary’s Kola Girls Secondary School after making his entry into Machakos Diocese.

He was welcomed and escorted by Machakos Diocese Bishop Norman King’oo and Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi at a brief ceremony at Kola.

Speaking at the forum, Kariuki promised to work closely with catholic faithful and leaders in the area in fostering unity, peace and development.

 “I am happy to see the warm welcome, we will work together with leaders and church officials to develop this area,” said Kariuki.

 “I assure you that I will serve with humility and humbleness,” he added.

On his part, Bishop King’oo challenged the local leaders to work together in order to uplift the lives of the local people whom he said were being afflicted by poverty.

He reminded leaders that the region was rich in resources which was expected to be utilized for the benefit of the residents of the area.

“This area produces the best oranges and mangoes in Kenya, and our leaders should ensure there is value addition to these products for the benefit of wananchi who are being exploited by middlemen,” he said.

On education the prelate urged the leaders to ensure that children in the region get quality education to secure a better future.

 “The church emphasizes education thereby make sure children get quality education by staffing the schools well and even if we have no jobs, we will export them to work in America and other countries.

Speaking at the same function, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonza Jr said that they will support the new Bishop to ensure development of the county improves.

Principal Secretary for State Department of Devolution Terry Mbaika who was also present echoed the same sentiments saying they will support the incoming bishop in the area.

Also in attendance were chairman for Special Economic Zone Fred Muteti and Acting KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Andrew Mulwa among other local leaders from the county and national governments.

Courtesy; KNA