Presidential aspirant and gospel musician Dr. Reuben Kigame joined family, friends, and congregants at International Vision Centre (IVC) for a heartfelt memorial service celebrating the life and ministry of the late Bishop Joseph Likavo.
In his moving tribute, Dr. Kigame reflected on a 25-year friendship with Bishop Likavo, describing him as a compassionate, inclusive, and visionary leader whose influence went far beyond the pulpit.
He recounted a pivotal moment in 2000 when his family was involved in a serious road accident en route to an Asaph Conference hosted by Bishop Likavo.
At the time, Kigame was facing harsh criticism from several church leaders after he distributed a 28-page letter warning churches about what he considered erroneous teachings by visiting televangelist Benny Hinn.
While many interpreted the accident as a divine punishment, Bishop Likavo stood by Kigame’s side.
“While others distanced themselves, Likavo accepted me and allowed me to minister—bandaged, limping, and in open shoes,” Dr. Kigame recalled.
“He did not see my injuries as a curse, but stood with me as a fellow believer,” he added.
How Bishop Likavo supported people with disabilities
Kigame went on to describe Bishop Likavo’s commitment to inclusion, noting that he opened his pulpit, home, and ministry to people living with disabilities.
As a blind person, Kigame felt deeply seen and valued by the bishop. He also remembered how Bishop Likavo invited Mary Atieno, a musician living with disability, to minister—demonstrating his unwavering belief in the power of all God’s people.
The tribute also highlighted Bishop Likavo’s role in national governance and leadership.
Kigame recalled working closely with him, along with the NCCK and EAK, during Kenya’s constitutional reform processes in 2005 and 2010. The two often met in Eldoret, traveled to Nairobi together, and participated in civic education forums across the country.
“He was deeply involved in shaping the ethical and moral foundations of the new constitution,” Kigame said.
“His insights contributed to the birth of Chapter 6 on leadership and integrity, and Article 10 on national values and principles,” he added.
Kigame described Bishop Likavo as a man of prayer, purpose, and deep listening—someone who mentored many young people and helped them begin their walk with God.
Kigame-Likavo relationship
As a media owner, Kigame once gave the bishop airtime on Fish FM, where he regularly spoke on vision and purpose, touching countless lives through his teachings.
In closing, Kigame praised Bishop Likavo’s enduring impact, saying, “His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the leaders he helped shape, and the values he championed. Kenya has lost a true shepherd.”
The memorial service was attended by religious leaders, family members, and believers from across the country, all united in honoring the life of a man whose ministry transcended barriers and transformed lives.
