President William Ruto has unveiled and dedicated the mausoleum of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday, October 7, at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
The ceremony brought together Ruto, Raila’s widow Mama Ida Odinga, members of the Odinga family, clergy, government officials and other invited guests. Ruto formally handed over the mausoleum to the family during the ceremony.
Ruto read a presidential citation honouring Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic history. He described the former Prime Minister as a patriot and Pan-Africanist who dedicated decades of his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice and a more democratic society.
The President also reflected on Raila’s years in detention and political struggle, saying his perseverance through difficult periods made him a significant figure in Kenya’s journey towards expanding democratic space.
Ruto said the mausoleum would preserve Raila’s memory and stand as a testament to his contribution to the country’s history.
Mama Ida Odinga received the mausoleum on behalf of the family and dedicated the site to God. She also called on the church to bless the grounds as a place of peace and remembrance.
The ceremony culminated in the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Ruto and Mama Ida.
The mausoleum is located at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, where Raila was buried alongside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, following his death on October 15, 2025, aged 80.
Construction of the facility was taken over by the Ministry of Defence in July 2026, with military engineers working alongside technical teams from the National Museums of Kenya. The project was reported to be about 98 per cent complete ahead of Wednesday’s handover.
The site has also been placed under the protection of the National Museums of Kenya as part of efforts to preserve its historical significance.
Wednesday’s commissioning was restricted to invited guests because of space and security considerations, with public access expected to begin on Thursday, October 8.
The unveiling forms part of wider activities marking the first anniversary of Raila’s death. The Odinga family is expected to lead a candlelight ceremony at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi on October 14, ahead of a larger public commemoration in Bondo on October 15.
