Mama Ida Odinga has shared a deeply moving farewell letter to her late husband, Raila Odinga, honouring his memory as her confidant, lifelong companion, and unwavering pillar of strength.
In the emotional tribute posted on Facebook shortly after the State Funeral at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025, Ida poured out her grief, describing the pain of losing Raila as an ache that words cannot soothe. She admitted that each day since his passing has been a test of strength and faith.
“My Dear, my heart is heavy as I write these words. The news of your sudden passing feels like an ache that cannot be soothed. It’s a pain so deep. I find myself praying for strength, for courage, and for the peace that surpasses all understanding,” she wrote.
Reflecting on their 52-year marriage, Ida described their journey as one built on love, resilience, and unshakable hope. She said she had envisioned growing old beside him sharing quiet sunsets after decades of service and sacrifice — but has since come to accept that life’s plans belong to a higher power.
“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, growing old hand in hand, sharing quiet sunsets and dreams fulfilled,” she noted.
Ida celebrated Raila as a man of principle and compassion, whose courage, humility, and faith inspired not just his family but the entire nation.
“You taught me what true courage with humanity looks like. Through your actions and words, you showed us that forgiveness is a virtue worth cultivating, that bravery is facing life’s storms with unwavering faith,” she reflected.
Calling Raila her “foundation and pillar,” Ida described his death as a loss that extends beyond their family to millions of Kenyans who looked up to him as a symbol of justice, democracy, and national unity.
“Your guidance, your sacrifices, your unwavering dedication left a legacy that will forever shine brightly in our family and in the fabric of this nation. Losing you feels like losing a foundation of strength for us all. I am proud of the man you were a tireless fighter for justice, democracy, and the future of this country.”
Ida also extended her gratitude to Kenyans and friends across the world for their overwhelming show of love and solidarity, saying the national mourning and heartfelt tributes reminded her that Raila’s spirit endures in every heart he touched.
“The outpouring of love from across Kenya and beyond has overwhelmed me in the most humbling way. It reassures me that your spirit lives on in every life you inspired,” she wrote.
She closed her letter with a message of eternal love and peace:
“Farewell, my Dear. You have run your race with honour, courage, and unwavering love for Kenya. May the Lord rest your soul in eternal peace. Until we meet again, know that you are forever in my heart.”
