On November 20, 2018, reports indicated that ODM leader Raila Odinga was headed for another public honour, this time from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University. The institution said it would confer on him an honorary Doctor of Sciences degree on December 14.
The university said the award was being given in recognition of Odinga’s contribution to public service, leadership, and the widening of democratic space in Kenya and the region. It also cited his role in promoting infrastructure development, settlement, science, and environmental conservation.
According to the newspaper notice placed in the MyGov pages, the University Senate had determined that Odinga was worthy of the conferment of the honorary degree. Vice Chancellor Stephen Agong’ said the university believed Odinga reflected the values of the institution and had offered distinguished service to humanity and the advancement of learning.
The planned honour came after a series of other recognitions for Odinga in 2018. He had been appointed by the African Union as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, and in October he received the “Black History Month” African Peace Award 2018 at the British House of Parliament, Westminster House in London.
Odinga had also been publicly associated with peace efforts at home. He recently met Kisumu County Assembly Members and urged them to end wrangles in the assembly and focus on development. He has likewise been calling on political leaders across the country to avoid divisive politics and unite Kenyans.
The article framed 2018 as a year of major milestones for the former prime minister, following the 9th March, 2018 handshake between him and President Uhuru Kenyatta.
