As Kenya prepares to lay to rest the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a steady stream of regional, continental, and global dignitaries have begun arriving in Nairobi to pay their final respects. The state funeral has become not only a national event but also a significant diplomatic moment, reflecting Odinga’s towering influence on African politics and governance over the last four decades.
At Nyayo Stadium, where the official state funeral service is being held, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete was among the earliest high-profile guests to arrive. Kikwete, a long-time ally and admirer of Odinga, joined thousands of mourners and Kenyan leaders in honoring the life and legacy of a man he once described as “a true Pan-Africanist and a resilient democrat.”
Vice President Rebecca Nyandeng Garang, from South Sudan, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, governors, CSs, PSs, and MPs as well as thousands of mourners among other foreign, regional and domestic dignataries.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale received Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marking Somalia’s official representation at the solemn occasion.
Odinga had strong historical ties with the Horn of Africa, often engaging in behind-the-scenes diplomacy and conflict resolution efforts, especially during Somalia’s transitional periods.
His absence, many say, leaves a vacuum in regional dialogue.
But the tributes have not been limited to East Africa.
Foreign diplomats from Europe, the United States, China, and the Middle East have confirmed attendance, signaling Raila’s global recognition as a statesman. Embassies from the United Kingdom, Germany, South Africa, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates were among those represented by high-ranking officials, while messages of condolence continue to pour in from world capitals.
The ceremony at Nyayo Stadium is being led by President William Ruto, who in his eulogy described Odinga as "a formidable opponent, a patriot, and a statesman whose contribution to the democratic journey of Kenya can never be forgotten."
Ruto’s government has declared a three-day national mourning period, and the state machinery has been fully mobilized to ensure that Odinga receives a farewell befitting his status.
Also present at the service are leaders of Kenya’s religious communities, who joined in interfaith prayers.
Muslim leaders and other religious leaders led blessings and tributes in a show of unity, respect, and recognition of Odinga’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Kenya’s political elite, including former presidents, governors, senators, and Members of Parliament from across the political divide, have gathered in what is arguably one of the most significant political funerals in the country’s history. The show of bipartisan unity highlights the shared national grief and the respect Odinga commanded even among his fiercest critics.
Leaders from the African Union (AU), the East African Community (EAC), and ECOWAS have also sent delegations or are expected to arrive in the coming hours.
Many consider Odinga’s work — including his more recent role as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development — as instrumental in advancing Africa’s integration agenda.
As the nation looks toward the final burial in Bondo, Siaya County, the message is clear: Raila Odinga’s life and legacy transcended Kenya’s borders. His passing is not just a Kenyan loss, but a continental and global moment of mourning, reflection, and tribute to a man who devoted his life to the fight for justice, democracy, and African unity.
Regional, Continental, and Global Leaders Arrive in Kenya to Mourn Raila Odinga
The Nyayo Event is Expected to Go on Smoothly Unlike the Thursday Events