The widow of Kenya’s late former Prime Minister, Mama Ida Odinga, delivered a moving tribute to her husband during his State Funeral Service held at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi, on Friday, October 17, 2025.
In her emotional address, Mama Ida reflected on their 52 years of marriage a union that began in the early 1970s and endured the highs and lows of political life.
“I first met Raila way back in the early ’70s, and we got married in 1973. I’ve lived with this man for 52 years,” she said, adding with a smile, “Many of the people in this stadium could easily be our children; no wonder you call him Baba.”
Mama Ida recounted how the couple named their four children after figures and relatives who symbolized strength, heroism, and family values.
“During our union, we were blessed with four children. Our firstborn was named Fidel Castro Odhiambo Odinga after one of Raila’s greatest heroes, Fidel Castro. Then came Rosemary, a name that combines our mothers’ names Rose and Mary. Our third child was Raila Oginga Odinga Jr., named after his cousin and close friend. And our last-born, Winnie, was named as Nelson Mandela walked out of prison we agreed that if it was a girl, she would be Winnie,” she shared.
“There’s nothing wrong with naming children after those who inspire us,” she added warmly.
Reflecting on their decades together, Mama Ida said their marriage endured trials that included political detentions, exile, and moments of public scrutiny, yet their bond only grew stronger.
“Our lives were not a smooth ride. We had our ups and downs, but we learned to cope, to tell each other the truth, to forgive, and to move on,” she said. “Please don’t carry grudges from one generation to another. We must learn to forgive easily.”
She also emphasized Raila Odinga’s enduring message to Kenyans: unity, honesty, and peace.
“One thing he always told me was that we must urge Kenyans to live in peace. Raila hated dishonesty and the greed that leads to corruption,” she stated.
Mama Ida concluded her tribute by reaffirming her husband’s lifelong dream of a united and peaceful Kenya, saying she would share more reflections at his burial in Bondo.
The State Funeral Service, attended by national leaders, dignitaries, and foreign guests, was organized under the directive of President William Ruto to honor Raila Odinga’s decades of sacrifice and leadership in Kenya’s democratic journey.
