Apostolic Vicariate of Nekemte

Bishop Getahun Fanta Shikune, C.M. Vicar Apostolic of Nekemte

Birth Place: Aleku Sassi Birth Date: 25 Feb 1973

Ordained Priest: 1 Jul 2001

Ordained Bishop: 22 Sep 2024

The history of the Apostolic Vicariate of Nekemte can be traced back to the Apostolic Vicariate of the Oromo, which was erected on 4th May 1846. Taking Territories from it, the Apostolic Prefecture of Kaffa was established on 28th January 1913. Later, on March 25th, it was elevated to an Apostolic Vicariate and renamed the Apostolic Vicariate of Jimma. With the Decree of Propaganda Fide dated September 3, 1982
changed the name of the Vicariate to the Apostolic Vicariate of Nekemte.

EXTENT

The Apostolic Vicariate of Nekemte comprises East Wollega, West Wollega, Kelem Wollega and Horo Guduru Wollega and a large part of the West Showa Zones of Oromia Regional State and Assossa and Kamashi Zones in Benishangul Gumuz Regional State.

APPROXIMATE FIGURES

The population is estimated to be around 52,539 Catholics, covering an area of 85,500 km².