Veteran Nairobi Catholic priest dies after 50 years of service
By Charles Ouma, January 28, 2026Veteran Catholic priest Reverend Father Joseph Mokaya is dead.
His passing on was announced by Most Reverend Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi, who stated that the priest died at Mater Hospital on the night of January 27, 2026.
“His Grace, Most Rev. Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi, announces with deep sorrow the passing on of Rev. Fr. Joseph Mokaya, who died at Mater Hospital last night,” a statement by the Archdiocese of Nairobi read in part on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
At the time of his death, Fr. Joseph Mokaya was serving at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish, Buruburu in Nairobi.
Father Mokaya’s 5 decades of exemplary service
Father Mokaya was ordained to the priesthood on June 28, 1975, and faithfully served the church for more than 50 years.
“A priest of the Archdiocese of Nairobi, Fr. Mokaya was ordained to the priesthood on June 28, 1975, at Our Lady of Visitation, Makadara, and faithfully served the Church for many years with dedication and zeal,” the statement added.
He leaves behind a rich legacy of selfless service, devotion and impact in the Nairobi Archdiocese and the wider Catholic community.
Over the five decades, Fr. Mokaya served in different parishes and rendered invaluable services.
“His priestly apostolate took him to several parishes and offices, including Mangu Parish (Gatundu North), Riruta Parish, St. Joseph Parish Jericho, Ruku Parish (Lower Kabete), Ndundu Parish (Gatundu South), St. Mary Magdalene Parish Kariokor, Nyamangara Parish (Gatundu North), and Blessed Sacrament Parish Buruburu.
Father Mokaya’s legacy
He also rendered invaluable service as a formator at St. Mathias Mulumba Senior Seminary, Tindinyo, helping shape future priests. In addition, he served at the AMECEA Secretariat (Nairobi) and was involved during the period of the 43rd International Eucharistic Congress in Nairobi.
He pursued further studies at the University of Nairobi, Duquesne University (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA), and in Rome, where he obtained Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Sacred Theology.
The Archdiocese of Nairobi extended condolences to his family, parishioners, and many who have been touched by his ministry over the years.
“May the soul of Fr. Joseph Mokaya rest in peace,” Archbishop Anyolo said.