Mama Ida Odinga has paid tribute to her late husband, former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, on the first anniversary of his death, describing him as “Shujaa Number One” and “our number one hero” in a message released to coincide with Mashujaa Day.
In the message, titled “A Message of Gratitude & Appreciation,” Mrs Odinga said she wished to honour her “beloved husband” with “a heart full of gratitude and deep emotion.” She remembered him as a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, politician and patriot whose courage, sacrifice and commitment to democracy, justice and the dignity of the people would remain etched in Kenya’s history.
“Baba was more than a leader,” she said, calling him a symbol of hope and resilience whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Mrs Odinga thanked Kenyans, leaders, friends, supporters and well-wishers who joined the family at Migwena Cultural Grounds on October 15. She described their presence, prayers and solidarity as a “profound source of comfort and strength” to the family, and said they had come together “united by a shared appreciation for a man whose life touched millions.”
The widow also thanked President William Ruto, in his capacity as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and the national government for honouring the family with a visit and for building a mausoleum befitting the late statesman.
Mrs Odinga urged Kenyans to keep Raila’s dream alive by upholding the ideals he stood for: unity, justice, equality, democracy and service to humanity.
“Let us turn our memories into meaningful action,” she said, appealing to Kenyans to ensure these values continue to guide the nation.
She closed with a note of consolation: “Raila Odinga may be gone, but his spirit lives on in our hearts, in our struggles and in our collective hope for a better Kenya.” She ended the message with “Rest in eternal peace, Baba. Shujaa.”
The message, signed “H.E Mama Ida Odinga,” was shared on social media in a graphic bearing a portrait of the late Raila Odinga, the “R1” one-year anniversary emblem, and the greeting “Happy Mashujaa Day.”
