Germany ambassador to Kenya: One year on, we honour Raila’s legacy

Germany’s Ambassador to Kenya, Sebastian Groth, has honored the memory of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on the first anniversary of his passing. In a statement released on the German Embassy's X account, Groth highlighted Odinga's strong ties with Germany and their final meeting in 2024. The ambassador recalled speaking German with Odinga during their last conversation, discussing old times, politics, and Kenya’s history.

Groth expressed that he gained valuable insights from Odinga about Kenya, its political climate, and African history, describing him as a Pan-African visionary whose impact transcended national borders.

One year after Odinga’s death on October 15, 2025, in India at the age of 80, the embassy paid tribute to his legacy. Groth emphasized that Odinga's educational experiences in Leipzig and Magdeburg established a personal bond with Germany, which he acknowledged in the tribute. The embassy's message honored not only Odinga's political career but also his intellectual pursuits and engagement with international affairs.

Kenyans and international organizations have been remembering Odinga since his demise, with tributes pouring in from political figures, government bodies, and global partners. These tributes recognized his pivotal role in Kenya’s democratic evolution. Among the institutions mourning him were the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC).

IPOA chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan described Odinga as a statesman who significantly shaped Kenya’s path towards democracy. He highlighted Odinga’s instrumental role in the pursuit of multiparty democracy and the creation of the 2010 Constitution. Similarly, the NCIC recognized Odinga’s contributions to constitutional reforms, fostering national unity, and promoting social inclusion, noting that his work had left a lasting impact on generations of Kenyans.

Odinga’s influence extended beyond Kenyan politics. He served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018, advocating for regional infrastructure integration. As the country commemorates the first anniversary of Odinga’s death, tributes from Kenya and around the world continue to reflect on his profound influence on democracy, political leadership, and Pan-Africanism.