The Kenyan government has announced plans to permanently preserve condolence messages received after the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The move aims to safeguard the tributes for future generations and recognize Odinga’s national and international legacy.
The messages came from governments, institutions, organizations, and individuals from around the world. Officials have compiled and bound the messages into official volumes that will remain accessible in key national institutions.
Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei made the announcement on Friday, January 30. He spoke during a ceremony held at the Odinga family home in Karen, Nairobi.
Sing’oei said the government intends to deposit the volumes in several public repositories. These include the Kenya National Archives, the Kenya National Library Service, the Foreign Affairs Library, and the Foreign Affairs Gallery at Uhuru Gardens.
He explained that the initiative seeks to preserve history and honor Odinga’s contribution to the nation. Sing’oei handed over the bound volumes to Mama Ida Odinga during the ceremony.
“This compilation is meant for posterity, for the family, for the nation, and for future generations,” Sing’oei said. He noted that the messages reflect Odinga’s impact both within Kenya and beyond its borders.
Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80. He passed away while receiving medical treatment in Kerala, India.
Odinga collapsed during a morning walk at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre. Doctors later confirmed that he died from cardiac arrest.
Medical staff rushed him to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam. Resuscitation attempts failed, and doctors pronounced him dead later that morning.
The former Prime Minister had been in India for five days. He was seeking treatment for diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. His daughter, Winnie Odinga, accompanied him during the trip.
Following his death, President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning. Flags flew at half-mast across the country.
The government also declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday. Kenyans used the day to honor Odinga’s life and contribution to the country.
Kenya Airways repatriated Odinga’s body on October 16, 2025. Thousands of Kenyans lined up along major roads to pay their respects.
The government held a state funeral at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Hundreds of thousands of mourners attended the ceremony.
Odinga was laid to rest on October 19, 2025. His burial took place at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, next to his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry said the preserved messages highlight Odinga’s role in promoting democracy, diplomacy, and African unity. Many tributes praised his courage, resilience, and commitment to justice.
“These messages speak of a man whose voice carried hope and whose leadership inspired many,” Sing’oei said.
The ministry also announced plans to establish an annual conference in Odinga’s name. The event will bring together scholars, diplomats, and leaders to discuss democracy and diplomacy.
In addition, the government expressed willingness to work with the Odinga family. Officials plan to help establish a museum in Bondo to preserve Odinga’s life, work, and legacy for generations to come.
