Bespoke City founder and renowned tailor Bolo Bespoke has spoken candidly about the emotional experience of designing and tailoring the elegant outfit worn by Mama Ida Odinga during the state funeral of her late husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium.
In a heartfelt post shared on Instagram, Bolo described the project as the most emotionally demanding task of his 10-year career, revealing that every stitch carried the weight of grief, reverence, and silent prayers.
“In my 10 years as a Fundi, I have never tailored a dress with this much pain. Every stitch carried a story, a prayer, a tear, a memory. Too much was running through my mind, too many questions left unanswered. Why, God? Why did it have to be Baba?” he wrote.
The designer also released an intimate behind-the-scenes video showing Mama Ida fitting the outfit before the ceremony. In the clip, Bolo can be seen making final adjustments to the neckline and sleeves before accompanying her as she prepared to leave for the funeral.
A Symbol of Grace and Strength
The outfit itself was a masterclass in understated elegance a two-piece ensemble blending modesty with quiet sophistication.
It featured a structured peplum blazer paired with a flowing A-line skirt, creating a seamless silhouette that embodied dignity and poise. The blazer’s softly padded shoulders and neatly defined lapels added composure, while subtle brown satin piping along the inner seams introduced a refined contrast. Crafted from a midweight crepe blend, the garment struck a balance between structure and fluidity, moving gracefully with every step Mama Ida took.
A Nation in Mourning
Bolo’s reflection echoed the broader grief felt across Kenya following Raila Odinga’s death in Kerala, India, on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80. His passing from cardiac arrest marked the end of a political era that shaped Kenya’s democracy.
His body was repatriated the following day, with massive crowds converging at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, forcing a revision of the reception plans. Public viewing, initially slated for Parliament Buildings, was shifted to Nyayo Stadium to accommodate the overwhelming turnout of mourners.
The state funeral drew thousands, including President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and dignitaries from across East Africa. The ceremony was marked by hymns, military honours, and emotional tributes to a leader remembered for his endurance and unyielding commitment to justice.
Amid the solemn proceedings, Mama Ida Odinga stood as a figure of grace and quiet resilience. Her composed presence, adorned in Bolo’s creation, became one of the most poignant images of the day.
Later, she shared a moving farewell letter to her husband, revealing her grief and enduring love:
“For over five decades, you weren’t just my husband you were my partner, my confidant, my greatest supporter. I had dreamed of retiring together, of growing old hand in hand, sharing quiet sunsets and dreams fulfilled.”
Raila Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County, beside his late mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga. Thousands are expected to attend the burial as Kenya bids farewell to one of its most consequential leaders.
