The National Steering Committee in Kenya has officially declared October as a month of remembrance for Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister who passed away on October 15, 2025. The committee, led by Prof. Adams Oloo, has urged Kenyans to honor Odinga beyond political, religious, and ethnic differences. This initiative aims to celebrate Odinga's life and public contributions.
A candle-lighting ceremony is scheduled for October 14 at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, which will be led by Mama Ida Odinga and members of the Odinga family. Kenyans and Raila supporters worldwide are invited to participate in the event by lighting candles in his memory. This ceremony is part of a wider commemoration program that will run throughout October.
In addition to the candle-lighting ceremony, a series of activities have been planned at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo on October 15, which marks the first anniversary of Raila's death. These activities will include lectures, tree planting, songs, and dances that reflect on Raila's life and public contribution. The events are expected to bring together people from different backgrounds to celebrate Odinga's legacy.
The National Steering Committee has welcomed a planned candle-lighting ceremony by the Nairobi City County Government and the Orange Democratic Movement on October 2. The committee has given its blessings to the event and encouraged Kenyans to participate in the memorial activities in their own way. However, the committee has warned against raising funds in the name of the Odinga family or the National Steering Committee.
The committee has also cautioned Kenyans to be vigilant and watch out for fraudsters who may try to exploit the remembrance period by soliciting money. The committee has made this request out of an abundance of caution to prevent individuals from misusing this well-intended season of remembrance for personal gain.
Migwena, the venue for some of the commemoration activities, holds special significance to the Odinga family as it is the place where Raila's father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, met his mother, Mama Mary Oginga. This site will serve as a backdrop for celebrating Raila's life and legacy. The remembrance program is expected to bring together people from different parts of the country to pay tribute to Odinga.
The remembrance month is a tribute to Raila Odinga's life and public contribution. The events planned across the country will provide an opportunity for Kenyans to reflect on Odinga's legacy and celebrate his life. Key activities include candle-lighting ceremonies, lectures, and cultural events that will take place throughout October.
Key points
- The National Steering Committee has declared October as a month of remembrance for Raila Odinga.
- A candle-lighting ceremony will be held on October 14 at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
- The remembrance program includes various activities such as lectures, tree planting, songs, and dances to celebrate Raila's life and public contribution.
