Busia, Kenya: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has paid glowing tribute to Rt. Rev. Dr John Okude Omuse, the outgoing Bishop of Katakwa Anglican Diocese in Kenya, describing him as a devoted servant of God whose ministry has strengthened unity and spiritual growth across East Africa.
The farewell ceremony, held on Sunday at St. John’s Cathedral, Katakwa, drew hundreds of Christians from Kenya, Uganda, and beyond, who gathered to celebrate Bishop Okude’s nine years of episcopal service and lifelong contribution to faith and community development.
The 65-year-old bishop was consecrated and enthroned as the 3rd Bishop of Katakwa Diocese on August 28, 2016, succeeding Rt. Rev. Dr. Zack Epus, who retired upon reaching the mandatory age of 65.
Delivering President Museveni’s message, Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, who also serves as Katakwi Woman MP, conveyed the Ugandan leader’s heartfelt appreciation for Bishop Okude’s selfless service.
“Bishop Okude’s ministry has been a blessing not only to the people of Kenya but to the entire East African region,” Museveni said in his written message. “I thank God for keeping him in good health — physically and spiritually — and for guiding his faithful service to the church and humanity.”
The President also commended the Anglican faithful of Katakwa for supporting their bishop throughout his tenure and praised the organizers for extending invitations to Ugandan delegates, saying it underscored the historic brotherhood between Uganda and Kenya.
“Your invitation of our Ugandan brothers and sisters is proof of our shared heritage. The people of Teso, both in Kenya and Uganda, are bound by history, blood, and language,” Museveni’s message read.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Disability Hellen Grace Asamo, members of Parliament from the Teso sub-region, and Emorimor Papa Paul Sande Emolot, the cultural leader of the Iteso.
Bishop Okude’s Nine-Year Legacy of Growth
Bishop Okude will officially hand over office on February 28, 2026, after the election and consecration of his successor within the next five months.
Ordained a deacon in December 1991 and later a priest in 1992, Okude has served the Anglican Church of Kenya for more than three decades, including 22 years as archbishop before assuming leadership of Katakwa Diocese.
Under his leadership, the diocese has witnessed major milestones, including 36 clergy ordained and 1,900 women enrolled in the Mothers’ Union, 1,500 men recruited into the Kenya Anglican Men’s Association (KAMA), 20,000 candidates confirmed, 32 church foundations laid, 26 new modern churches consecrated, and several vicarages established to strengthen parish operations.
Observers credit Bishop Okude for fostering unity across denominations and championing interfaith collaboration, which has enhanced peace and development in Busia County and neighboring Uganda.
Regional Leaders Praise the Outgoing Bishop
Busia County Governor Paul Otuoma lauded Bishop Okude for promoting interfaith unity and collaboration with local authorities. “He has been a unifying leader whose partnership with government and religious institutions has uplifted our people,” Otuoma said, thanking President Museveni for maintaining peace and security across the region.
Arthur Osia, the Private Principal Secretary to Kenya’s President William Ruto, described Okude as “a courageous and consistent bishop who has served with grace and humility.”
Oku Kaunya, MP for Teso North Constituency, praised Okude’s focus on reconciliation and prayed for continued ties between Uganda and Kenya. “Bishop Okude believed in forgiveness and unity. We wish President Museveni success in the coming elections,” he said.
Mary Otucho, MP for Teso South, hailed the retiring bishop as a model of servant leadership. “In his nine years of service, he has inspired many. May his retirement be filled with love, laughter, and peace,” she said.
Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot, the cultural leader of the Iteso, called for unity among the Teso people across the Kenya–Uganda border. “Let us preserve the bond between our peoples. We are one family divided only by colonial borders,” he said.
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