The Odinga family has announced the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga, daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Beryl, who led a relatively private life, was a cherished member of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families.
In a statement shared on Facebook, the family described Beryl as a devoted mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai, and a loving sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa. She was also sister-in-law to Dr. Anne Oburu, Dr. Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu.
“It is with a heavy heart, but in acceptance of the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms. We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her,” the family said.
Beryl’s passing leaves an “immense void,” the family added, expressing gratitude for her life and the positive influence she had on those around her.
Though she avoided the public spotlight, Beryl was a distinguished professional. She completed her Form Six studies in December 1972 and pursued careers as both a teacher and a lawyer. She made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city, and later served as Company Secretary of the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe.
Back in Kenya, she continued her public service, holding the position of Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), having been appointed to the board in January 2020. She was also known for her educational and social connections, revealing in 2023 that she had been a classmate of former Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.
Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974, who later passed away from a heart attack in 1985 while at Kodiaga Prison. Her family and colleagues remember her for her dedication, professionalism, and the meaningful impact she made throughout her life.
