The death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga drew leaders from across Africa, among them Elizabeth Macheka, the widow of the late Zimbabwean Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai. Her presence in Bondo, Siaya County, added an unexpected touch of grace and nostalgia, rekindling memories of Zimbabwe’s political elite and the bond once shared between the Odinga and Tsvangirai families.
Macheka made her first appearance at Opoda Farm on October 18, when she joined Mama Ida Odinga during a press briefing. Dressed in a long, flowing black gown, she exuded poise and humility. Her soft makeup and calm demeanor left a lasting impression on many Kenyans, who quickly noticed her natural beauty and elegance.
When she spoke, Macheka expressed deep sorrow over Raila’s passing, highlighting the friendship and mutual respect between Raila and her late husband. She described their bond as one built on a shared struggle for democracy and social justice across the continent.
On Sunday, October 19, during Raila’s funeral, Macheka drew even more attention. She wore a black, body-hugging gown paired with dark sunglasses, modest jewelry, and red lipstick—a simple yet commanding look that resonated with grace and confidence. Many Kenyans online lauded her appearance, calling it “classy, powerful, and effortlessly beautiful.”
Who is Elizabeth Macheka?
Elizabeth Macheka Tsvangirai is a Zimbabwean businesswoman and the widow of Morgan Tsvangirai, the founding leader of Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC). Born in 1976, she is the daughter of Joseph Macheka, a former mayor of Chitungwiza and a veteran politician from the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union–Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF).
Her name became known beyond Zimbabwe in 2012 when she married Tsvangirai in a high-profile traditional wedding in Harare. The ceremony came three years after Tsvangirai’s first wife, Susan, died in a tragic road accident.
Their marriage became the subject of much discussion due to the 25-year age gap—Tsvangirai was 60, while Macheka was 35. Additionally, controversies surrounding the legality of the marriage arose after one of Tsvangirai’s former partners, Locadia Karimatsenga, claimed to still be married to him under customary law.
These disputes led the Roman Catholic Church to refuse to officiate their wedding, forcing the couple to proceed with a customary ceremony instead. Despite the public scrutiny and political tension surrounding their relationship, Macheka remained loyal to her husband throughout his battle with colon cancer until his death in February 2018.
Political Background and Family Life
Macheka’s marriage to Tsvangirai attracted both admiration and criticism due to her father’s strong ties to ZANU-PF, the party Tsvangirai had long opposed. Some of Tsvangirai’s supporters accused her of being a political decoy sent by the ruling elite, a claim she firmly dismissed.
She defended her loyalty, saying her commitment was to her husband, not politics. During Tsvangirai’s illness, Macheka was frequently seen by his bedside, ensuring his comfort and privacy as he underwent treatment in South Africa.
The couple had no children together, but Macheka had two children from a previous relationship. She has deliberately shielded them from public attention, preferring to keep her family life private.
After Tsvangirai’s death, she inherited both the respect and scrutiny that came with being the widow of one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic opposition leaders. Her composure, however, has remained intact. Many Zimbabweans continue to view her as a symbol of strength and quiet dignity.
Where Elizabeth Macheka Is Today
Since 2018, Elizabeth Macheka has chosen to live a relatively private life. She runs several business ventures in Zimbabwe, focusing on retail and catering. While she stays away from the political spotlight, she occasionally appears at memorials and public events that honor her late husband’s legacy.
Online, she maintains an active social media presence. Her Instagram posts reveal a softer side—she enjoys spending time with her dogs, golfing, and being around close family and friends.
Her recent visit to Kenya to pay her respects at Raila Odinga’s funeral reaffirmed her connection to Africa’s democratic struggle. Both Raila and Tsvangirai were political icons who spent their lives fighting for multiparty democracy in their respective countries.
For many who saw Macheka at the funeral, her elegance and composure reminded them of a generation of African leaders and their families who carried political power with dignity and humility. Her appearance did not just honor Raila’s memory—it reignited memories of her late husband and the shared ideals that once united them.
