Before becoming its own diocese, Bunda was part of the Archdiocese of Mwanza and the Diocese of Musoma. The creation of the diocese aimed to improve pastoral care and support the growing Catholic communities in the region.
The roots of Catholic evangelization in Bunda go back to the early 20th century, when missionaries first arrived to spread the faith, provide education, and offer basic healthcare. A key milestone was the ordination of the first native priest, Father Celestine Kipanda, in 1917, which encouraged greater local involvement in Church life.
With the formal establishment of the Diocese of Bunda in 2010, evangelization and pastoral development entered a new phase. The first bishop, Renatus Leonard Nkwande, focused on organizing parishes, supporting the local clergy, and expanding schools and social programs. His leadership strengthened the Church’s presence in both rural and urban areas, creating a solid foundation for future growth.
Since 2021, under Bishop Simon Chibuga Masondole, the diocese has continued to deepen its evangelization efforts, promote community development, and enhance pastoral care. Today, Bunda is a thriving Catholic community, actively engaged in spiritual formation, education, and social initiatives, building on more than a century of missionary work
The Diocese of Bunda is located in northwestern Tanzania, spanning approximately 5,530 square kilometers across the Mara and Mwanza regions. Established in 2010, it serves the local Catholic population and is part of the ecclesiastical province of Mwanza.
