 |
| Former prime minister Raila Odinga and His sister Beryl Achieng |
Ruth Odinga, who is known for her close familial ties and public role, shared the sad news on social media. In her message, she expressed the family's sorrow at Beryl’s passing but also found solace in their belief that Beryl was now in God’s care.
She described Beryl as a loving mother to her children—Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurus—and spoke of her as a cherished daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga.
“It is with profound sorrow, but accepting God's will, we announce the untimely passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga,” Ruth wrote. “She was the daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga, and the loving mother of Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurus.
While we grieve this heartbreaking loss and the emptiness it leaves in our hearts, we find comfort in knowing that she is now in God's care. We are grateful for the precious moments we shared with her during her time with us,” Ruth added.
Ruth's words painted a picture of Beryl as not only a family member but also a deeply cherished individual whose presence was felt by everyone who came into contact with her.
Despite the fame and political legacy of the Odinga family, Beryl remained a private person, largely staying out of the public eye.
This low-profile lifestyle made her passing all the more shocking to many, as she was known more for her personal contributions to her family and community than for any political or public role.
The Life of Beryl Achieng Odinga
Beryl Achieng Odinga was born into one of Kenya’s most prominent political families, the Odingas, whose influence stretches across generations.
Her father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was one of the founding fathers of the nation and a key figure in Kenya’s struggle for independence. Jaramogi was a strong advocate for political and social justice and served as Kenya's first Vice President after independence.
He later became a prominent opposition leader. His political legacy has continued through his children, especially his sons, Raila Odinga, a former Prime Minister, and Oburu Odinga, a Member of Parliament.
Her mother, Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga, was also an influential figure, deeply involved in the family’s political and social affairs.
The Oginga family was well-known not just for their political prominence but for their deep commitment to education, human rights, and the empowerment of marginalized groups in Kenya.
Despite being surrounded by the political spotlight, Beryl largely kept a low profile. She did not seek the same level of attention that her brother Raila received, instead leading a quieter life away from the limelight.
Nonetheless, she was known within her family and the local community for her caring nature, her dedication to her children, and her role in the family’s heritage.
Her contribution to her community and her family's legacy remains an important part of her story, even though she did not take on public roles like other members of the Odinga family.
The Impact of Beryl’s Passing
The passing of Beryl has reverberated beyond her family, as she was a figure of quiet strength and love in the Odinga household.
While not as publicly known as some of her family members, those who interacted with her described her as a warm, thoughtful individual who remained close to her roots in the family and community.
The tributes that have poured in since her passing attest to her positive influence and the impact she had on the people who knew her personally.
Although Beryl did not directly participate in the political sphere, her connection to the Odinga legacy cannot be overlooked.
The Odinga family’s influence on Kenya’s political landscape is significant, and each member of the family carries the weight of this legacy in different ways.
Beryl's passing represents the loss of a figure who may not have sought the spotlight but was no less important in the familial and social fabric that holds the Odinga family together.
A Community Mourns
Kenya has lost a quiet yet influential figure, and her death has left a hole in the hearts of many, particularly within the Odinga family.
While the cause of her death has not been officially disclosed, the family and close friends continue to mourn her loss in private, cherishing the memories they shared with her.
Ruth’s emotional message underscores the grief felt by the family while also expressing a sense of peace in knowing that Beryl is now in God's care.
As the country reflects on the passing of this cherished family member, Kenyans are reminded of the value of family, the importance of personal legacies, and the irreplaceable role each individual plays in shaping their communities.
Beryl Achieng Odinga may not have been a public figure in the traditional sense, but her quiet strength and the love she offered to her family and loved ones will continue to resonate in their hearts.
Beryl Achieng Odinga’s death marks the end of an era for the Odinga family. Though she may not have sought fame or recognition, her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
The pain of her loss is keenly felt, especially by her siblings, including Raila Odinga, whose public life has been a stark contrast to Beryl’s quieter existence. Nonetheless, her impact on her family and community, her role as a mother, daughter, and sister, will remain a part of the Odinga family’s history.
As the family navigates through this difficult period, the tributes and memories of Beryl Achieng Odinga serve as a reminder that even the most private individuals can leave a profound mark on the lives of others.
