The Catholic Diocese of Kitui has announced that Rev. Deacon Dennis Bernard Maithya, who died in a tragic road accident along the Mwingi–Nguni Road on January 23, 2026, will be laid to rest on Monday, February 2, 2026, as the Diocese and faithful continue to mourn the sudden loss of a newly ordained cleric.
As earlier reported by Channel 15 News, Deacon Dennis was riding a Yamaha motorcycle when he was involved in a head-on collision with an oncoming Toyota Probox at around 9:30pm near Kyanundu.
A reliable eyewitness told Channel 15 News that the impact threw him across the road, causing his instant death.
The Burial Mass, expected to be presided over by former Kitui Bishop Joseph Mwongela, will take place at the St. Patrick’s Mutune Parish grounds, followed by burial rites and interment at the St. Patrick’s Mutune Cemetery.
On the burial day, the body will arrive at Tribute Funeral Home, Syongila, at 7.00 a.m., before proceeding in a procession to St. Patrick’s Parish, Mutune, where it will be received at 8.00 a.m. Viewing will follow at 8.30 a.m., ahead of the Burial Mass at 10.00 a.m.
Ahead of the burial, Vigil Masses will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 5.00 p.m., at Museve Cathedral, Kauma (Kasyala Parish), Nguni, Mutune, and Nguutani Parishes, allowing the faithful across Kitui County to join in prayer.
Deacon Dennis was ordained on December 8, 2025, and was serving at St. Patrick’s Parish, Nguni, at the time of his death—barely weeks into his diaconal ministry.
His death has once again drawn attention to night-time road safety along the Mwingi–Nguni Road, a key transport corridor that has recorded several accidents involving motorists and motorcyclists.
The Catholic Diocese of Kitui has urged the faithful to continue praying for the repose of his soul and for strength for his family as burial preparations continue.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
