Ida Odinga, widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has shared the deeply personal meaning behind his favourite song, Jamaica Farewell. The calypso classic, released in 1956 by Harry Belafonte, took on new significance after Raila's death in October 2025. Ida revealed that the song's lyrics carried a weight far more personal than most people knew, reflecting the reality of their marriage and Raila's turbulent political career.
Speaking during the unveiling of Raila's mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, Ida explained that Jamaica Farewell was not just a favourite tune for Raila, but a reflection of their marriage. She recounted the song's lyrics, which speak of leaving loved ones behind while travelling far from home, mirroring Raila's multiple stints in detention and time away from family. Ida revealed that she was the "little girl" left behind, referred to in the song.
Raila Odinga was a devoted fan of Harry Belafonte's music and regularly performed Jamaica Farewell during television interviews. After his death, the song found a new audience, with President William Ruto singing it at the state funeral held at Nyayo National Stadium. The song became a national moment of mourning, turning a personal favourite into a shared experience for the nation.
The Raila Odinga Mausoleum was unveiled on October 7, 2026, in Bondo, Siaya County, featuring a pentagonal design tied to his political legacy. The marble-lined structure sits beside the mausoleum of Raila's father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya's first vice president. The tomb's five-sided design is a nod to the ODM Pentagon coalition of 2007 and Raila's iconic raised-fist salute.
The Kenya Defence Forces completed construction of the mausoleum in roughly two months after taking over the project in July 2026, at an estimated cost of KSh30 million. The mausoleum, now under the care of the National Museums of Kenya, includes an interactive museum with photographs, personal artefacts, and inscribed quotes from both Raila and Jaramogi.
President Ruto also announced plans to expand the site with a national library and larger museum complex. The expansion aims to create a larger tribute to Raila Odinga and his legacy. The mausoleum and museum serve as a testament to Raila's impact on Kenyan politics and his enduring legacy.
Ida Odinga's revelation about the personal meaning behind Jamaica Farewell has added a new layer of understanding to the song's significance. The song has become an integral part of Kenya's history, reflecting the nation's grief and respect for Raila Odinga.
Key points
- Ida Odinga revealed that Jamaica Farewell was a reflection of their marriage and Raila's time away from family.
- The Raila Odinga Mausoleum was unveiled on October 7, 2026, featuring a pentagonal design tied to his political legacy.
- President Ruto announced plans to expand the site with a national library and larger museum complex.
