The Diocese of Kayanga officially began on November 6, 2008, with the consecration and installation of Bishop Almachius Vincent Rweyongeza as its first bishop. The ceremony was led by Cardinal Polycarp Pengo, with Bishops Severine Niwemugizi and Nestorius Timanywa assisting.
Today, the diocese serves approximately 424,000 Catholics, about 66% of the local population of 644,000, providing spiritual guidance and community support.
The Catholic presence in Kayanga has deep roots, dating back to the late 19th century, when missionaries arrived in the Kagera Region to share the Gospel and build communities of faith. Through their dedication, they established missions, schools, and churches, laying the foundation for a vibrant and growing Catholic community.
Initially, the region was part of the Diocese of Rulenge, but the creation of the Diocese of Kayanga in 2008 allowed for more focused pastoral care and stronger local leadership. On November 6, 2008, Bishop Almachius Vincent Rweyongeza was consecrated as the first bishop, marking a new chapter in the Church’s mission in the area.
Since its establishment, the diocese has been committed to spreading the Christian faith, forming catechists, and nurturing parish communities. While it continues to support education, healthcare, and social initiatives, its core mission remains the evangelization and spiritual growth of the faithful, ensuring that the message of the Gospel touches every corner of Kayanga.
The Diocese of Kayanga is led by Most Rev. Almachius Vincent Rweyongeza, who has served as bishop since its founding:
Under Bishop Rweyongeza’s guidance, the diocese continues to grow spiritually and socially, nurturing the local Catholic community with care and vision.
P. O. Box 3011, Moshi
Tel: +255272752089
Fax: +255272750934
E-mail: bishopshouse_moshi@yahoo.com
CDNK Sisters Bishop’s House Moshi
Diocesan Chancery
P. Box 3041 Moshi
Tel: +255272752127
Fax: +255272751982
E-mail: catdi.moshi@gmail.com
The Catholic Diocese of Kayanga was established on August 14, 2008, by Pope Benedict XVI, from territory previously part of the Diocese of Rulenge, now Rulenge-Ngara. It is a suffragan diocese under the Archdiocese of Mwanza.
Covering 7,716 square kilometers (about 2,980 square miles), the diocese includes the districts of Karagwe and Kyerwa in Tanzania’s Kagera Region, bordering Uganda to the north and Rwanda to the west.
