Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Joseph Maluki Mwongela, the current Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui, as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Machakos, a move that signals continuity, stability, and renewed pastoral energy within the diocese.
The appointment was communicated through a formal letter from the Apostolic Nunciature in Kenya, dated 2 January 2026, and signed by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Bert van Megen. According to the notice, the decision will be officially announced on Sunday, 4 January 2026, at 2:00 pm Kenyan time (12:00 noon in Rome) and was to remain confidential until that hour.
Born on 7 April 1968 in Kakumi, within the Diocese of Kitui, Bishop Mwongela has served the faithful of Kitui with notable dedication, pastoral sensitivity, and a strong commitment to evangelization. His episcopal ordination took place at the grounds of St. Charles Lwanga School, Kitui, within his home diocese.
As Coadjutor Bishop, Bishop Mwongela will assist Bishop Norman King’oo Wambua, the third Bishop of Machakos, and will automatically succeed him upon retirement or resignation, in accordance with Canon Law.
The Diocese of Machakos has a rich episcopal lineage, having previously been shepherded by the late Bishop Urbanus Joseph Kioko, and later Archbishop Martin Kivuva Musonde, who was subsequently transferred to serve as Archbishop of Mombasa.
In recent years, the Diocese of Machakos was also under the pastoral care of Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Archdiocese of Nyeri, who served faithfully as Apostolic Administrator for three years, providing stability and guidance during a transitional period.
The appointment of Bishop Mwongela now ushers in a new chapter of hope, continuity, and pastoral momentum for the Diocese of Machakos, as clergy and faithful look forward to his leadership in strengthening evangelization, pastoral care, and the mission of the Church.
