The late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who died on October 15, 2025, in India, was more than a national leader—he was part of a political dynasty that helped shape Kenya’s history. Born to Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Mary Ajuma Odinga, Raila was the second-born son in a family deeply rooted in leadership, education, and service.
At 80, Raila’s passing marked the end of an era for the Odinga family, whose influence spans decades. He will be laid to rest on October 19, 2025, at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Nyamira, Bondo, Siaya County—the Odinga family’s ancestral home and resting place.
According to Matthew Otieno, curator of the Jaramogi Mausoleum, Raila had eight siblings, each contributing uniquely to the family’s legacy. Some are still alive, while others rest at the family mausoleum that symbolizes Kenya’s enduring struggle for democracy and equality.
Raila Odinga Siblings: The Complete List of the Odinga Family Members and Their Legacies
Kang’o Ka Jaramogi is not only a family homestead but a powerful symbol of Kenya’s political journey. It houses the graves of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, his wife Mary Ajuma, and several of their children, including the late Raila Odinga.
The site serves as both a museum and heritage center, preserving the Odinga legacy for future generations. Visitors from across the country come to learn about the family’s role in the nation’s liberation, democracy, and governance.
From Jaramogi’s opposition to colonial rule to Raila’s decades-long fight for political reform, the Odingas have stood at the center of Kenya’s socio-political transformation. Their story continues through the surviving family members who remain active in public service and leadership.
Dr. Oburu Oginga
Dr. Oburu Oginga, born in 1943, is the firstborn in the Odinga family and currently serves as the Senator of Siaya County. A seasoned economist and veteran politician, Oburu studied in Moscow, earning a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in economics from the People’s Friendship University.
His political journey began in 1974 when he became a councilor in Kisumu Municipality. Over the decades, he has held various leadership roles, including Assistant Minister for Finance during the Grand Coalition Government in 2008.
Oburu also authored an autobiography, In the Shadow of My Father, published in 2021, offering insight into the Odinga family’s sacrifices and political battles. His career reflects resilience and dedication to the ideals his father and brother stood for.
The Odinga Sisters
The Odinga sisters made significant strides in fields often dominated by men, continuing their parents’ emphasis on education and leadership.
Ngire Omwuoda Agola, born in 1947, lived a quiet life away from politics before her passing in 1983 at age 36. She was the first of Jaramogi’s children to be buried in Bondo.
Dr. Akinyi Wenwa Odinga, a respected diplomat and academic, served as Kenya’s Ambassador to the United States and Consul General in Los Angeles. A former Senior Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at the University of Nairobi, she has also been involved with key institutions like KEMRI and the Kenya National Archives. Currently, she sits on the Homa Bay County Revenue Board, where she oversees the Human Resource Committee.
Beryl Achieng Odinga, another distinguished sibling, made history as the first Black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe. She later worked as Company Secretary for the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe and chaired the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company. Beryl was married to Otieno Ambala, who briefly served as Gem MP before his death in 1985.
Their achievements underline how the Odinga women have carried forward the family’s tradition of public service and empowerment across borders.
The Younger Odingas Lives Cut Short and Continuing Legacies
Not all of Jaramogi’s children lived to see the family’s political triumphs. Several passed away young, leaving behind stories of tragedy and resilience.
Fredrick Odima Oginga, born in 1954, died in 1975 at the age of 21. Reports indicate he took his own life while staying with Achieng’ Oneko, a close family friend and independence hero.
Omondi Oginga, born in 1956, died in infancy the same year, while Shadrack Osewe Oginga, born in 1958, led a quiet life as a businessman before passing away in 1999, five years after Jaramogi’s death.
Hon. Ruth Odinga
The youngest sibling, Ruth Adhiambo Odinga, carries the family’s political torch today. She is the current Kisumu Woman Representative and previously served as Deputy Governor of Kisumu County between 2017 and 2022.
Ruth studied Social Science at the University of Oslo and holds a postgraduate certificate in Development Studies.
Before joining politics, she managed Spectre International, the family-owned ethanol company, and held leadership roles at Petro Plus Africa and the African Community Development Association in London. Her leadership reflects the Odinga family’s commitment to education, industry, and reform.
