Bondo, Siaya County, will host a major memorial service on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to honour former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, one year after his death.
The ceremony will bring together the Odinga family, political leaders, religious representatives, international guests and members of the public. Organisers have chosen Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground as the main venue for the commemoration.
The memorial will celebrate Raila’s political journey, his contribution to Kenya’s democracy and his lasting influence on national affairs.
Migwena Grounds to Host Main Ceremony
Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground holds special significance for the Odinga family. The late former prime minister maintained close ties with the area and regularly participated in community activities.
According to the organisers’ programme, the gathering will feature religious services, cultural performances and tributes from leaders and guests. Musicians will also celebrate Raila’s life and legacy through performances.
The event is expected to attract mourners from across Kenya and beyond. Organisers have encouraged attendees to uphold peace, dignity and national unity throughout the proceedings.
Raila Odinga Mausoleum Opens to Visitors
The memorial will also draw attention to Raila’s mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family homestead in Bondo.
President William Ruto officially unveiled the state-backed mausoleum during a ceremony held earlier this month. The Kenya Defence Forces led its construction, creating a permanent memorial to the former prime minister.
The structure stands near the resting place of Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice president. Their nearby resting places connect two generations of the family’s political history. The mausoleum provides another place for Kenyans to reflect on Raila’s life and public service. Visitors can pay their respects while learning about the family’s contribution to the country’s political development.
Ruto and Uhuru Expected at Memorial
The gathering is also expected to attract prominent figures from Kenya’s political landscape. President William Ruto is expected to attend alongside former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who worked with Raila following the 2018 Handshake agreement.
Their anticipated attendance adds national significance to the commemoration. However, organisers have stressed the importance of keeping the event focused on Raila’s life and legacy rather than partisan politics.
Kenyans Prepare to Honour Raila’s Legacy
Raila played a prominent role in Kenya’s multiparty struggle, constitutional reform and opposition politics. His decades in public life earned him support from many Kenyans across different generations.
As Bondo prepares to welcome mourners, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on his political journey and the issues he championed.
The memorial will bring together people from different backgrounds to celebrate his contribution to Kenya and remember a figure whose influence continues to shape national conversations.
