The Catholic Diocese of Lodwar welcomed its fourth bishop on Friday as Rt Reverend John Mbinda was installed following weeks of security challenges in Kainuk town, located at the Turkana-West Pokot border. The ceremony marked the conclusion of a 2.5-year interim period after Bishop Dominic Kimengich transitioned to the Eldoret Diocese in November 2019.
Mbinda's arrival was celebrated with traditional rituals, including a symbolic ground-kissing at Kainuk Bridge, before he proceeded to Lodwar for his ordination at Ekaales Center. The 49-year-old prelate, born in 1973 in Kanzalu Parish, emphasized addressing both spiritual and socio-economic needs during his tenure.
"I will prioritize climate resilience, food security, and community peace," Mbinda stated, advocating for tree-planting initiatives to combat desertification and scientific approaches to drought mitigation. He also called for grassroots dialogue to resolve regional insecurity, noting that "security begins with individual responsibility."
Kimengich, who served as interim leader since 2020, expressed confidence in Mbinda's leadership, calling Turkana "a wonderful place with supportive people." The diocese, established in 1968, faces persistent challenges from arid conditions and cross-border conflicts, bordering Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.
Mbinda's appointment by Pope Francis was announced in April 2022. Prior to his new role, he served as an assistant priest in the UK. The diocese's first bishop, John Christopher Mahon, led from 1968 to 2000, followed by Patrick Joseph Harington (2000-2011) and Kimengich (2011-2019).
