DNK International By Kennedy Epalat and Reuben Olita
The election of the Ven. Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Katakwa Diocese marks the culmination of his more than three decades of dedicated Christian ministry, theological scholarship and community service.
Widely respected as a pastor, educator and administrator, Bishop-elect Ekuru has built a reputation for servant leadership and a commitment to transforming both the Church and society.
Born on August 5, 1972, Dr. Ekuru answered God’s call to ministry at an early age.
He was ordained a deacon at St. John’s Pro-Cathedral Katakwa in December 1995 before being ordained a priest in December 1996.
His long and faithful service saw him licensed to officiate marriages in May 2023, adding another milestone to his pastoral ministry.
On June 13, 2026, the ACK Diocese of Katakwa elected him as its fourth bishop, entrusting him with the responsibility of shepherding thousands of Anglicans across the diocese.
His election, however, was subsequently challenged in court.
The legal challenge was later dismissed after the Busia Court upheld the election, clearing the way for his consecration and enthronement as the substantive Bishop of Katakwa Diocese.
Dr. Ekuru combines pastoral experience with outstanding academic achievements.
He holds two doctoral degrees,a PhD in Christian Education and a PhD in Christian Counselling from Northwestern Theological Seminary in Florida, USA.
He also earned a Master’s degree in Christian Education and Biblical Studies from Shalom Bible College and Seminary in Iowa, USA, and a Bachelor of Theology from Jacksonville Baptist Theological Seminary in Florida.
His academic background has equipped him to mentor clergy and train future church leaders.
Before his election as Bishop, Dr. Ekuru served as the Archdeacon of Chamasiri Archdeaconry and Parish Vicar of St. Paul’s Kakemer Parish.
Since 2018, he has chaired the Diocesan House of Clergy, serving four consecutive terms.
He has also shared his knowledge as an adjunct lecturer at St. Paul’s University and Carlile College’s Katakwa satellite campus.
Throughout his ministry, Dr. Ekuru has served in several parishes across the diocese, including Chebkwabi, Kakapel, Kamukata, Chelebei, Amukura, Cheptais, Malaba, Keng’atuny and Kakemer.
He also served as Bishop’s Chaplain from 2007 to 2012 and as Diocesan Administrative Secretary during the same period, roles that strengthened his administrative and pastoral leadership.
Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Ekuru has played a significant role in education and community development.
He has served on the boards of several schools, including Katakwa Senior Secondary School, St. Paul’s Kakemer Senior Secondary School and Albert Ekirapa Kakapel Secondary School.
Among his notable achievements are the establishment of Chelebei Mission Clinic, Kakapel Special School and Kakemer Library, as well as overseeing the construction of churches, clergy houses and other church facilities across the diocese.
His passion for holistic ministry extends beyond spiritual care to improving access to education, healthcare and community services.
Dr. Ekuru also contributed to peace building efforts during the conflict involving the Sabaot Land Defence Forces, serving as a community facilitator and helping promote reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
In his vision for ministry, the bishop elect emphasises empowering communities through Christian values, promoting servant leadership, advocating for vulnerable and marginalised groups, encouraging accountability in leadership and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Fluent in English, Kiswahili, Ateso, Luhya and Kalenjin, Dr. Ekuru is known for his ability to connect with diverse communities across Western Kenya.
He is married and enjoys evangelism, pastoral guidance and community service.
His consecration and enthronement is expected to attract a distinguished congregation of national and regional leaders.
Among those expected to attend is President William Ruto, Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Alupo, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula,Iteso Cultural Leaders led by Emormor Paul Sande Emolot, senior clergy and a host of political, religious and community leaders from Kenya and Uganda.
As he prepares to assume leadership of the ACK Katakwa Diocese, many faithful who talked to DNK-International believe Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru’s blend of spiritual maturity, academic excellence, administrative experience and commitment to community transformation positions him to lead the diocese into a new era of growth, unity and impactful ministry.
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🗓️ [DNK-International@July 26,2026]
