By Mchungaji News Team
Fr. Kiranga, who had been courageously battling cancer, leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of Kenya’s priestly formation. For 19 years, he served as a Formatter and later as the Rector of the Interdiocesan Seminary of Saint Augustine in Mabanga, where his impact was both profound and far-reaching. His tenure was marked by an unwavering commitment to the intellectual and spiritual development of hundreds of seminarians who have gone on to serve as priests across Kenya and beyond.
Born on December 2, 1962, in Lari, a village nestled in the lush highlands of Kiambu County, Fr. Kiranga was the eldest of ten children in a deeply devout Catholic family. His early years were shaped by a strong sense of duty and faith, nurtured by his parents, Bernard Kiranga and Maria Njeri Kiranga. These formative experiences set him on a path that would ultimately lead him to the priesthood.
After completing his primary education, he joined Queen of Apostles Minor Seminary in Nairobi (1979-84). Following his calling, he continued his studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Molo in 1985. He pursued philosophy at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Mabanga, where he would later serve as Rector. For theology, he attended St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi (1988-91). He was ordained a priest by the Servant of God Maurice Michael Cardinal Otunga on May 29, 1993, a day he often recalled with great joy. Following his ordination, he served in various parishes as a Parochial Vicar.
Cardinal Otunga later sent Fr. Kiranga to Rome to study Philosophy at the prestigious Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, 'Santa Croce', where he earned a Master’s degree in Philosophy in 2000 and, subsequently, a Doctorate in Philosophy in 2003. His doctoral dissertation was titled “Aristotle's Rhetoric and Its Implications for Public Morality.”
Upon his return to Kenya, Archbishop Ndingi Mwana a’Nzeki seconded him as a Formator and Lecturer at his alma mater, St. Augustine’s Seminary, Mabanga. He remained there for nearly 20 years, rising to become the Vice Rector and later, for many years the Rector.
Fr. Kiranga was deeply devoted to the priesthood and worked tirelessly to instill that same love in his students. While he was known for being strict, he was also fatherly and never compromised on excellence. During his tenure as Rector in Mabanga, he initiated numerous projects, including addressing the seminary’s water challenges, constructing self-contained rooms for some students, refurbishing the dining hall, and enhancing the seminary’s aesthetics, including its gate. His love for beauty was not only something he taught but also lived. Fr. Casmir Odundo, one of his former students, shared, “He encouraged us to be self-reliant and to contribute even to our own formation. Once, after our television broke, he urged us to raise funds for a new one. Of course, he made the highest contribution, but we raised so much money that we had the dilemma of deciding which was the best television to buy after the students harambee.”
Fr. Kiranga's influence extended beyond the seminary walls. He was a frequent speaker at religious conferences on priestly formation, having also earned a degree in Priestly Formation from the Pontifical Ateneo Regina Apostolorum in 2007 and coupled to his many years of experience. Despite his many achievements, those who knew him speak most often of his humility, kindness, and deep faith.
After stepping down as Rector in 2023, Fr. Kiranga sought to return to pastoral work, something he always deeply desired. He requested a pastoral sabbatical in the Diocese of Cheyenne in Wyoming, where he was placed at Holy Spirit Catholic Community in Rock Springs. There, he found a new home, ministering to a diverse and welcoming congregation. However, his time in Wyoming was cut short as his health declined due to cancer—a battle he faced with the same quiet strength and smile that had characterized his life.
Tributes have poured in from those who knew him personally. Madam Grace Gichuru, who served as Fr. Kiranga's secretary in Mabanga, shared her deep admiration, saying, “It is difficult to believe that you are no more. The years I worked under you, you were one unique person. Your humility was beyond explanation. As a boss, you corrected with a lot of humanity and love. I could write endlessly about your good deeds. My prayer was always that you would heal and return to the Lord’s service. But God picks the best flower in His Garden. Fr. Njuguna, rest in peace.”
Some of the tributes date back many years. Mr. Raphael Mburu from Nakuru shared, “I knew him in December 1985 while he was a seminarian. In 1996, I met him in Rome during the beatification of Padre Pio. He is the one who advised me to visit the tomb of Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo. He even showed us where to take the bus from at Termini. May he rest in peace.”
A former student also shared heartfelt memories, saying, “Whenever we tell our stories about our experiences in the Philosophicum, we can't help but mention you. You brought in so much energy as a new formator, and shortly after, you became the Dean of Students. This is where the story begins! ‘Hakuna aliyesazwa’ to account for their day. I don't want to talk about the eve of Palm Sunday... Fr. Kiranga, we treasure the moments spent with you, and your memories will always abide with us. May the Lord, whom you served with so much love and joy, receive you in the heavenly banquet of the wedding feast of the Lamb. Rest in peace, Padre,” wrote Fr. James Kaguru, now a Parish Priest at Divine Mercy Parish in Kamgoin, Baringo County, within the Diocese of Nakuru.
Fr. Kiranga’s impact was also deeply felt by his colleagues. Fr. Amani Kochwa, CM, a Vincentian priest, wrote, “Today, I reflect on the life of a man who was not just a priest, but a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light in my journey as a young priest. When I was appointed as a newly ordained priest to join the faculty in Mabanga, Fr. Njuguna was a beacon of warmth and kindness. He welcomed me with open arms and trusted my potential. He was a true friend whose door was always open—whether for casual conversation, philosophical discussions on aesthetics, or simply to share a drink. Rest in peace, buddy and mentor. I will miss you.”
Fr. Kiranga's passing marks the end of an era for the many priests who passed through Saint Augustine’s Seminary under his guidance. As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from across the globe, reflecting the widespread respect and affection for a man who dedicated his life to the service of others.
One such tribute came from Mr. and Mrs. Mary and Antony Muroki, who met Fr. David during his difficult days in India when he was seeking treatment. “Dear Father, we met you for the first time in New Delhi, India, where we were seeking medical care in a renowned hospital. Our interactions, sharings, and words of encouragement strengthened us and gave us more resolve to continue fighting the common goal that brought us there—medical care. We bonded well in a foreign land and appreciated every encounter. May the Lord grant you eternal peace. Amen.”
Fr. Kiranga is survived by his mother, Maria, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews who continue to carry the family’s strong Catholic tradition. His funeral will be held in Nairobi on September 10, where the Church he served so faithfully will lay him to rest, honoring a life that has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s religious landscape.
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