The State Funeral for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga took place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium, where thousands of mourners and dignitaries from around the world gathered to honour the legacy of one of Kenya’s most influential leaders.
In a solemn display of respect, Raila’s casket, draped in the Kenyan flag and adorned with the orange colours of the ODM party, was carried in a dignified procession into the packed stadium.
The crowd included ordinary citizens, political leaders, and international guests, all united in grief and admiration as they paid tribute to the late statesman’s enduring impact on Kenya and the African continent.
Global Leaders Join Kenyans in Paying Tribute to Raila Odinga at State Funeral. Photo: Courtesy.
The Odinga family, led by Mama Ida Odinga, was visibly moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and respect for their departed patriarch.
Raila’s elder brother, Dr. Oburu Oginga, together with his children, Raila Junior and Rosemary Odinga, joined other family members in receiving condolences and witnessing the nation’s heartfelt tribute to their beloved leader.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto attended the State Funeral, marking the conclusion of the official mourning period.
State Funeral for Raila Odinga Draws Thousands to Nyayo Stadium. Photo: Courtesy.
Leaders from the united opposition also turned out in large numbers, reflecting the enduring solidarity and respect within the political movement that Raila Odinga had dedicated his life to building and leading.
Governors from across the country joined Cabinet Secretaries and members of the diplomatic corps at the solemn ceremony.
The State Funeral also drew high-profile guests from the region and beyond, among them Ethiopian President Taye Atsé Selassie, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, who all paid their respects to the fallen statesman.
Kenya Honors the Life and Legacy of Raila Odinga in Grand State Funeral. Photo: Courtesy.
In a powerful moment of emotion and unity, mourners at Nyayo Stadium broke into song, chanting “Baba usilale, bado mapambano” — “Baba, don’t sleep, the struggle continues.”
The heartfelt chorus, long associated with Raila’s political journey, echoed through the stadium, embodying the enduring spirit of resistance, reform, and hope that he inspired across generations.
