In pictures: Inside Raila Odinga’s mausoleum in Bondo
The mausoleum was constructed by the Kenya Defence Forces, with military engineers working alongside technical teams from the National Museums of Kenya.
In the village of Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Kenya, lies the Raila Amolo Odinga Mausoleum, a tribute to the nation’s former Vice-President and political luminary. Adjacent to his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s burial site, the mausoleum is a testament to the Odinga family’s legacy. Its creation is a collaborative effort, with the Kenya Defence Forces, technical teams from the National Museums of Kenya, and the Ministry of Defence all contributing to its design and construction.
Completed ahead of the first anniversary of Raila’s death, the building’s unique pentagonal shape distinguishes it from the neighboring hexagonal mausoleum of his father. During the handover ceremony, a military officer explained the design’s symbolism, depicting wildlife at the entrance and incorporating elements to transform the site into a memorial and heritage center.
The government has taken the mausoleum under protection, aiming to preserve and interpret Raila’s life and his contributions to Kenya’s history. President William Ruto formally transferred ownership to Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, during a restricted ceremony attended by Odinga family members, national leaders, and guests. While the initial ceremony was limited due to space and security concerns, public access to the mausoleum is set to commence on October 8.
A candlelight vigil is planned for October 14, leading up to a public commemoration on October 15. The mausoleum is envisioned as a place for visitors to pay respects to Raila and explore the history of one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, whose decades-long career was marked by the pursuit of political and constitutional change in the nation.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
