Julio Rodriguez

The Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Archbishop Bert Van Megen, who has served as Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya since 2019, as the new Apostolic Nuncio to Germany.

The appointment, officially announced in Rome on April 9, 2026, at 12 noon (1 p.m. Kenyan time), marks the close of a deeply impactful diplomatic and pastoral mission in Kenya and opens a new chapter of ecclesial service in Europe, with residence in Berlin.

Born in the Netherlands in 1961 and ordained a priest in 1987, Archbishop van Megen brings to his new assignment a wealth of global experience. His service in the diplomatic corps of the Holy See has spanned Africa, Europe, and Latin America, including prior appointments as Apostolic Nuncio to Sudan and Eritrea in 2014, before his transfer to Kenya.

During his seven-year tenure in Kenya, Archbishop van Megen distinguished himself not only as a representative of the Holy See but as a shepherd deeply attuned to the life of the local Church. He traversed dioceses across the country, celebrated the Eucharist with communities, and engaged closely with bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful. His presence was particularly felt during periods of national difficulty, including drought, insecurity, and broader social challenges.

In a defining strategic priority articulated early in his mission, the Nuncio emphasized the urgent need to fill vacant dioceses with shepherds. This vision translated into decisive action. As principal consecrator, he ordained numerous bishops who now serve across Kenya, reinforcing ecclesial leadership and continuity.

Among those he ordained are Bishop Joseph Maluki Mwongela (2020), Bishop Michael Cornelius Otieno Odiwa (2021), Bishop Willybard Kitogho Lagho (2021), Bishop Mark Kadima Wamukoya (2022), Bishop George Muthaka (2022), Bishop John Mbinda (2022), Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya (2022), Bishop Henry Juma Odonya (2023), Bishop Cleophas Oseso Tuka (2023), Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe (2024), Bishop Wallace Ng’ang’a Gachihi (2024), Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei (2024), Bishop Peter Munguti Makau (2024), Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u (2024), Bishop Jackson Murugara (2025), and Bishop Vincent Ouma Odundo (2026).

Through these episcopal ordinations and his consistent engagement with Church leadership, Archbishop van Megen has played a pivotal role in shaping both the present vitality and future trajectory of the Church in Kenya.

In a formal communication to the Kenyan Bishops announcing his transfer, Archbishop van Megen conveyed both the solemnity and grace of the moment. His letter reads in part:

“I have the honor to inform you that the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has appointed me Apostolic Nuncio to the Federal Republic of Germany, with residence in Berlin. The date of my definite departure from Nairobi will be communicated in due course, as I prepare to take up this new mission in the service of God and His Church. I commend myself to your prayers. In this joyful Easter season, I extend my warm greetings and assurances of my prayers and fraternal esteem.”

His pastoral philosophy remained clear and compelling: a Church called to serve with humility, compassion, and unwavering faithfulness. This ethos was reflected not only in his words but in his sustained presence among the people.

As he transitions to his new diplomatic assignment, the Church in Kenya extends profound gratitude for his dedicated service, enduring friendship, and faithful witness. His legacy remains embedded in a strengthened episcopacy and a Church more closely united in mission.

With this appointment, the Holy See signals continuity in its diplomatic engagement while affirming a leadership model rooted in presence, purpose, and pastoral proximity—an enduring imprint of Archbishop Van Megen’s mission in Kenya.

 KCCB -Commission for Social Communications Team