Benedictine Sisters Flee Kenya’s Kerio Valley Amid Escalating Violence

Amid escalating violence in Kenya’s Kerio Valley, a community of Benedictine nuns has shuttered its operations indefinitely. The decision follows the recent tragedies involving two parish priests who lost their lives under violent circumstances.

The Missionary Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart Priory announced an immediate closure of their facilities, citing the murder of Father Alloyce Bett as a pivotal factor.

Father Bett was fatally shot by bandits on May 22. His death occurred just days after Father John Maina succumbed in a hospital, suspected to have been poisoned after being discovered critically ill on a highway.

The loss of Father Bett was profoundly felt by the community, where he was remembered at his funeral as a devout servant to both God and his people, according to reports from Fides news agency.

Maurice Muhatia Makumba, the Archbishop of Kisumu and President of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, has urged for a thorough investigation into the deaths. He has also called on the government to enhance protection for all citizens, including Catholic priests, against violence.

The persistent threat of violence in Kerio Valley has deeply impacted the region. Sister Rosa Pascal OSB, the Prioress of the Missionary Benedictine Sisters, highlighted the severe mental, psychological, and emotional strain on the sisters due to the killings.

With many staff members fleeing for safety, the order can no longer maintain its services.

Kenyan political leaders are also pressing for increased protective measures. Boni Khalwale, a senator from Kakamega, condemned the ongoing violence, describing the situation as “constant” and unacceptable for neglect.

“The Catholic Church has endured traumatic experiences for over 20 years, and the silence of the authorities following these attacks is deeply disturbing. Citizens are closely monitoring how the security forces are handling each case,” he stated, as reported by Fides.