Tributes pour in after senior Eldoret-based Pastor Joseph Likavo dies
By Steve Ireri, December 19, 2025Tributes have continued to flow following the death of Apostle Joseph Likavo, the founder of International Vision Centre (IVC) in Eldoret, who passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, while undergoing treatment in the United States.
The IVC Ministry, in an official statement on Friday, December 19, 2025, described his passing as a heavy moment for his family, the church fraternity, and the wider body of Christ.
“Further to our brief communication yesterday, the family, IVC church & Ministries wishes to inform the congregation, the body of Christ and the general public that our Spiritual Father, Senior Pastor and presiding Bishop Apostle Joseph Likavo, passed on yesterday, 18/12/2025, while undergoing treatment in the USA,” the statement read in part.
They remembered the preacher as a spiritual father who faithfully served God with distinction, carrying a clear vision, an apostolic mandate, and a shepherd’s heart.
The statement noted that his life was dedicated to prayer, teaching, and service, impacting generations across nations.
“This is a heavy moment for His family, the IVC fraternity and associated ministries, the body of Christ, and all whose lives were touched by his ministry, leadership, and fatherly grace. Apostle Joseph Likavo faithfully served God with distinction, carrying a clear vision, an apostolic mandate, and a shepherd’s heart,” the statement added.
The church leadership urged the congregation and the wider Christian community to remain united in prayer and to support the family during this difficult period.
“As a Pastoral Team and church leadership, we ask the entire IVC family to remain united in prayer and all other virtues of Christian faith. Let us uphold the family, the leadership, and the congregation, trusting God for strength, comfort, and wisdom in the days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers specifically go out to Mama Janet, Collins, Kevin, Dan & their families and daughter Joy,” the statement added.
Mandago’s tribute
Uasin Gishu County Senator Jackson Mandago led the public tributes, describing Apostle Likavo’s life as a profound gift to many.
The senator extended condolences to the pastor’s immediate family, including Pastor Dan, Mama Janet, Joy, and the entire IVC fraternity.
“My heart is heavy learning of the passing of Bishop Joseph K. Likavo of IVC Church – Eldoret. His life of faithful service was a profound gift to so many of us,” Mandago wrote on Facebook.
He prayed for God’s comfort, strength, and peace for the bereaved during this painful time, noting that Bishop Likavo’s legacy was eternal and celebrating that he had entered into his heavenly reward.
“To Pastor Dan, Mama Janet, Joy, the entire Likavo family and the IVC fraternity, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray the God of all comfort holds you close, giving you strength and peace that surpasses understanding during this painful time. Bishop Likavo’s legacy is eternal, and I rejoice that he has entered into his glorious reward,” he added.