MWE Correspondent
In a rural village in western Kenya, a woman’s extraordinary claim is drawing growing public attention—and sparking widespread discussion around faith, identity, and mental health.
Judith Nafula, a 50-year-old resident of Busia County, has declared that she is the reincarnation of Mary, the mother of Jesus, the revered figure in Christianity known for giving birth to Jesus Christ through divine intervention.
Speaking to a group of followers outside a modest chapel, Judith claimed that her birth itself was miraculous. “My mother told me I was born as a white child, but only my hair was black. The doctors couldn’t believe that an African woman could give birth to a white baby,” she said in Kiswahili, her voice calm but firm.
Nafula also insists her husband is Joseph—mirroring the biblical figure Joseph of Nazareth, who is traditionally recognized as the earthly father of Jesus. “This is not just a story,” she added. “I was sent to finish what I started more than 2,000 years ago.”
Her claims, which have circulated in the area for several years, recently exploded into national conversation after videos of her teachings surfaced on social media. In the clips, she refers to herself as the “Mother of the World” and is seen preaching to small gatherings dressed in long, flowing garments.
Reactions to her statements have been divided. Some locals have embraced her as a spiritual guide, saying her words bring them peace. Others, however, are skeptical—fearing that she may be suffering from a mental health condition.
“It’s possible we are looking at a classic case of grandiose delusions, often associated with certain psychiatric disorders,” explained Dr. Isaac Murage, a clinical psychologist based in Nairobi. “It’s important not to stigmatize her, but to also assess whether she is in need of support or intervention.”
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Religious leaders have also weighed in. A spokesperson for the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops urged the faithful to approach such claims with caution. “The Church recognizes the Virgin Mary as a unique figure in salvation history,” the spokesperson said. “Any individual claiming to be her reincarnation must be evaluated in the light of scripture and doctrine.”
Despite the rising debate, Judith has remained undeterred by criticism. “Even in ancient times, people doubted divine messengers,” she said. “But the truth doesn’t depend on public approval.”
Local authorities say they are aware of the situation and have received no complaints of public disturbance. “As long as she is not inciting violence or disturbing peace, we have no grounds to interfere,” said a police official in Busia.
The story has now become a subject of fascination on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, where opinions are sharply split between belief and disbelief. Many are calling for medical professionals to examine Judith’s condition, while others are simply curious to see how her movement will evolve.
