BONDO — Former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta visited the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at their Opoda Farm home in Siaya County, offering condolences and solidarity during their time of mourning.
It was Mama Ngina’s first visit to the Odinga family since Raila’s burial on 19 October, an event that drew national and international figures paying tribute to one of Kenya’s most influential political leaders.
Accompanied by members of her family, the 91-year-old matriarch was warmly received by Mama Ida Odinga and close relatives at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family’s ancestral home
“A Gesture of Unity and Respect”
In a statement shared on X, the Odinga family expressed gratitude for the visit, saying:
“Thank you, Former First Lady H.E. Mama Ngina Kenyatta and your family, for joining the nation in mourning and coming home to commiserate with H.E. Mama Ida Odinga and the family of the late Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.”
Those present described the meeting as warm and reflective, with Mama Ngina reportedly expressing admiration for Raila’s lifelong dedication to democracy and national unity.
Mama Ngina, the mother of Kenya’s fourth president Uhuru Kenyatta, has largely stayed out of public life in recent years. Her visit to Bondo, however, was widely seen as a gesture of respect that transcended political divisions.
Continued Tributes to a National Figure
Since Raila’s burial, a steady stream of dignitaries has continued to visit Opoda Farm to honour his life and legacy.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was among the first to visit the grave site a day after the burial, describing Raila as “a steadfast leader who dedicated his life to the fight for democracy and justice.” During his visit, he also toured the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum, paying homage to the family’s long-standing role in Kenya’s struggle for freedom and reform.
On Wednesday, former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo also paid his respects, calling Raila “one of Africa’s great sons whose vision and courage in advancing democracy will never be forgotten.”
He was accompanied by senior Kenyan leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, and several cabinet secretaries.
A Legacy Beyond Borders
The continued visits from both local and foreign dignitaries underscore Raila Odinga’s enduring influence, not just in Kenya’s political landscape, but across Africa.
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