Kenyans across the country have gathered to mark the first anniversary of the passing of former Prime Minister and veteran opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga.
The milestone is being commemorated through a structured three-day national program spanning October 13 to October 15, featuring intergenerational dialogues, cultural tributes, and public health initiatives. The memorial events follow the recent commissioning of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga Mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, which was officially handed over to the National Museums of Kenya by President William Ruto.
Speaking during televised interviews as part of the commemorations, Mama Ida Odinga shared reflections on the late statesman’s final days, clarifying that his trip to India had originally been intended for a routine check-up and short holiday.
“He was going for a check-up; there was nothing serious,” [Mama Ida stated], describing the family’s journey before his sudden passing in October 2025. “It is a week of gratitude for his decades of service to our country.”
Commemorative events—dubbed Mwezi Wa Baba—have seen thousands of citizens participate in community medical camps, leadership forums, and cultural performances across the Western and Coastal regions. In Kisumu and Bondo, political leaders, civil society groups, and international delegates have convened to reflect on Odinga’s contribution to Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, multi-party democracy, and regional integration.
The three-day memorial concludes today, October 15, with a national candle-lighting ceremony and interfaith prayers in Nairobi and Siaya.