Pope Leo XIV has appointed Eldoret Catholic Diocese Bishop Dominic Kimengich as the Coadjutor Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa
The appointment was officially announced on January 28, 2026, marking a significant pastoral transition for one of Kenya’s metropolitan sees.
As Coadjutor Arcbishop, Bishop Kimengich will assist the Archbishop of Mombasa in the pastoral governance of the Archdiocese and, in accordance with canon law, holds the right of succession upon the vacancy of the metropolitan see.
“This appointment ensures continuity of leadership and strengthens the Church’s pastoral mission along the Kenyan Coast,” the Pope said.
When was Bishop Kimengich born?
Bishop Kimengich was born in 1961 and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Nakuru on September 14, 1986.
Over the years, he has rendered dedicated service to the Church through diverse pastoral, administrative, and formational roles.
His priestly ministry includes parish assignments, leadership in priestly formation as Rector of St. Joseph Junior Seminary, Molo, and service as Vicar General of the Diocese of Nakuru.
He later served as Rector of St. Matthias Mulumba Major Seminary, Tindinyo, where he played a key role in the formation of future priests.
Bishop Kimengich also worked at the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) in Nairobi, offering canonical and legal expertise, particularly in strengthening ecclesiastical tribunals and promoting sound Church governance.
On March 20, 2010, he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Lodwar and Titular Bishop of Tanaramusa, receiving episcopal ordination on May 22, 2010.
Pope Benedict XVI subsequently appointed him Bishop of the Diocese of Lodwar on March 5, 2011, and he was installed on March 30, 2011.
When was Bishop Kimengich transferred to Eldoret diocese?
In November 2019, he was transferred to the Diocese of Eldoret, where he has faithfully shepherded the people of God with a strong emphasis on evangelization, pastoral accompaniment, and prudent administration.
The Archdiocese of Mombasa, a historic cradle of Christianity in East Africa, continues to play a strategic role in evangelization, interreligious dialogue, and social justice along the Coast region.
Bishop Kimengich’s appointment brings with it a wealth of pastoral experience and ecclesial insight to support this mission.
