On October 7, 2026, President William Ruto presided over a solemn state ceremony to officially dedicate and commission the Raila Amolo Odinga Mausoleum at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County. The event was attended by top government officials and close members of the Odinga family, including Mama Ida Odinga, who wore a flowing white kaftan-style dress, symbolizing peace, strength, and healing.
The mausoleum, featuring a pentagonal design inspired by Raila's iconic Pentagon political era, has been handed over to the National Museums of Kenya for long-term preservation. The structure is built directly over Raila's grave and is connected to the resting place of his father, Kenya's first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. The Kenya Defence Forces mounted a guard of honour at the event, which was conducted with full military honours.
The ceremony was part of Mwezi wa Baba, a month-long national period of remembrance honouring the life and legacy of the late former Prime Minister, and marked approximately one year since his passing on October 15, 2025. Mama Ida Odinga paid tribute to her late husband through fashion, wearing white consistently since Baba's burial in October 2025.
The Kenya Defence Forces took over construction of the mausoleum in July 2026 after the family transferred responsibility of the site to the government. Siaya Governor James Orengo noted that construction was 98% complete following three months of work by military engineers. The facility will be open to the public from October 8, 2026.
Access to the ceremony was restricted to invited guests due to limited space. Among those in attendance were Mama Ida Odinga, Winnie Odinga, Raila Junior, and Jaoko Oburu, who represented his father Oburu Oginga. Kisumu governor Anyang' Nyong'o and Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga were also present. Notably absent was Oburu Oginga himself.
The Odinga family will hold a candlelight vigil on October 14, 2026, followed by a public memorial service at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground on October 15, 2026, to mark the first anniversary of Raila's death. Gender, Culture and Children Services CS Hanna Wendot Cheptumo confirmed that the dedication was conducted with full military honours.
The mausoleum serves as a repository of memory, history, and identity, providing a physical space for generations to encounter the story of an individual. With its unique design and historical significance, the Raila Odinga Mausoleum has become an important landmark in Kenya, honouring the legacy of one of the country's most consequential political figures.
Key points
- President William Ruto led a state ceremony to dedicate Raila Odinga's mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County.
- The mausoleum features a pentagonal design inspired by Raila's iconic Pentagon political era.
- The facility has been handed over to the National Museums of Kenya for long-term preservation.
