Bishop Joseph Likavo Laid to Rest as Tributes Highlight a Life of Faith, Family and Transformational Leadership

Tears, worship and deep reflection marked the burial of Bishop Joseph Likavo, a revered church leader, mentor and community pillar, who was laid to rest following an emotional service at Eldoret Sports Club. Bishop Likavo passed away on December 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that, according to mourners, transcends the pulpit and continues to shape lives even in death.

The burial service drew thousands of mourners from across the country, including church leaders, politicians, civil society actors and ordinary citizens whose lives were directly touched by the bishop’s ministry. What stood out was a rare convergence of grief, gratitude and spiritual introspection, as tributes painted the picture of a man who lived fully for God, family and society.

A Refuge for the Broken and Searching

For many, Bishop Likavo will be remembered as a shepherd who opened doors when hope seemed lost. Through the International Vision Centre (IVC) Church in Eldoret, which began as a modest tent sanctuary along Uganda Road more than a decade ago, he created a place of refuge for young people struggling with direction, addiction and broken purpose.

Former congregants recounted how the church became a spiritual home where they found acceptance, mentorship and opportunities to serve. Teachings grounded firmly in biblical truth, consistent prayer and a strong emphasis on grace over performance defined Bishop Likavo’s ministry.

Many testified that under his pastoral care they overcame addictions, discovered purpose and grew into responsible, productive members of society. “He believed in people even when they did not believe in themselves,” one mourner said.

A Father at Home, in Church and in Society

Tributes from Bishop Likavo’s family were among the most moving moments of the service, offering rare insight into the private life of a public spiritual leader. His children — Collins Likavo, Kevin Likavo, Pastor Dan Likavo and Joy Likavo — eulogised him not only as a bishop, but as a deeply present, loving and intentional father.

Joy Likavo’s tribute left the congregation visibly emotional as she recounted caring for her father in his final days. Her words, marked by strength and worship amid grief, underscored the depth of their bond. “Serving my dad in his final days… holding him as he took his last breaths… was the greatest honour of my life,” she said.

Mama Janet Likavo, Bishop Likavo’s wife of 45 years, was remembered for her quiet strength and partnership in ministry. Family members and congregants testified to a marriage marked by humility, faithfulness and mutual respect — a living sermon on godly family life.

Mourners noted that it is rare for all children in a pastor’s family to actively serve God, a grace Bishop Likavo and his wife often publicly attributed to God alone.

Ministry Beyond the Pulpit

Bishop Likavo’s influence extended far beyond the walls of the church. He founded and supported several Christian movements and organisations, including NAPRI, IMA, Gihon and IVC, institutions that church leaders say will outlive him and continue shaping Kenya’s spiritual landscape.

Leaders from different denominations unanimously described him as a man of integrity, generosity and deep love for Kenya. Among those who paid tribute were CITAM Bishop Emeritus Dr David Oginde, Apostle John Kimani William, Bishop Julius Atsango, leaders from Deliverance Church, and members of the Eldoret Gospel Ministers Association.

The consistent message was clear: Bishop Likavo was a unifier with a heart for national transformation. “He walked in integrity and served God faithfully all his life,” one church leader said.

Political Leaders Shift Tone at Funeral

In a striking departure from the norm, political leaders who attended the burial avoided partisan rhetoric, instead delivering reflective, faith-centred messages — a shift many attributed to Bishop Likavo’s spiritual influence.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii shared a deeply personal tribute, recalling how Bishop Likavo ministered to him as a young student and supported him spiritually and materially during his early political journey.

“I am a fruit of his work,” Governor Bii said. “He prayed for me, mentored me and even bought me fuel when I was broke and campaigning. That kind of generosity is rare.”

The governor went further, making a passionate call for spiritual revival in Eldoret City, which recently attained city status. In a symbolic gesture, he handed over the “keys of the city” to church leaders, urging them to lead a moral and spiritual renewal.

“It is expensive to host crusades, but whenever you plan one, come to us. We will offer waivers to ensure the gospel is preached,” Bii said, while pledging KSh 1 million toward the construction of a police chapel, a project Bishop Likavo had envisioned.

Senator Jackson Mandago reflected on lessons drawn from the bishop’s life, particularly on generosity, parenting and faith. He challenged leaders to invest more intentionally in their families and spiritual lives.

Turbo MP Janet Sitienei, Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana, and Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda shared testimonies of Bishop Likavo’s personal prayers, material support and spiritual covering, describing him as a rare leader who served without seeking recognition.

An Honourable Send-Off

Following his death, national and county leaders, including the President, worked closely with the funeral planning committee to ensure Bishop Likavo received an honourable send-off. Governor Bii seconded county officials to support funeral arrangements for more than 40 days — a gesture widely seen as a testament to the bishop’s impact.

“He rowed the boat as he prayed. He put action to his faith,” the governor said.

Beyond words, Bishop Likavo’s legacy is visible in tangible developments he championed, including a hospital, a school, a prayer mountain sanctuary, and a sports and recreational facility.

A Legacy That Lives On

As mourners departed, many acknowledged that Bishop Likavo’s death left behind hard questions rather than easy answers — questions about legacy, service, family and faith.

“What will be said of me when my time comes?” one mourner asked. “What legacy will outlive my existence?”

Even in death, Bishop Joseph Likavo continued to minister — challenging leaders to reflect, families to heal, and believers to live out their faith with action.

As tributes concluded, one truth resonated across the gathering: Bishop Likavo may have rested, but his work, vision and influence live on.