- Kenya prepares for a week of national mourning and a farewell to the late Raila Odinga.
- His body will arrive in Nairobi on Thursday, October 16, 2025, and lie in state at Parliament.
- A state funeral will be held on Friday at Nyayo Stadium, attended by local and foreign leaders.
- Public viewings will take place in Nairobi and Kisumu before the final burial in Bondo on Sunday, October 19.
- The government has assured tight security and urged Kenyans to unite in peace during the farewell events.
Kenyans will this week pay their last respects to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, as the country observes a series of national events in his honour.
According to the official programme, Raila’s body will arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. It will be received by President William Ruto, senior government officials, and family members.
Immediately after arrival, the body will be taken to Parliament Buildings, where members of the public will view it from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thousands of mourners are expected to attend the event to pay tribute to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
On Friday, October 17, 2025, a State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo National Stadium.
The ceremony will bring together local and African leaders to celebrate Odinga’s lifelong contribution to democracy and reform on the continent.
The event is expected to include tributes from political leaders, friends, and international dignitaries, marking a significant moment in Kenya’s history.
On Saturday, October 18, Raila’s body will be flown to Kisumu, where residents will have a final chance to view it at Jomo Kenyatta Sports Grounds.
The region is expected to host large crowds, as Kisumu was a stronghold of Odinga’s political career and one of the areas he deeply influenced.
The final burial will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
The service will be led by clergy from the Anglican Church of Kenya, in accordance with Odinga’s wishes.
This will mark the end of a week-long national farewell to a man many consider a cornerstone of Kenya’s political journey.
The government has enhanced security in all venues where the events will be held. Officials have also urged Kenyans to observe peace, respect, and unity during this period of mourning.
Raila Odinga’s final journey brings together a nation reflecting on his unmatched legacy, one that shaped Kenya’s democracy for generations.
