Who is Raila Odinga?
Raila Amolo Odinga was a towering figure in Kenyan politics, widely regarded as one of the most influential opposition leaders in the country’s post-independence history. Known for his relentless pursuit of democratic reforms, Odinga served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was a five-time presidential contender. His legacy is defined by his role in shaping Kenya’s multiparty democracy, championing constitutional reforms, and advocating for social justice.
Raila Odinga Biography
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a prominent independence leader. Raila grew up in a politically active household, which deeply influenced his worldview and career trajectory. He studied abroad, returned to Kenya, and entered politics in the 1980s, quickly becoming a vocal critic of authoritarian rule.
Odinga’s political journey was marked by resilience. He endured detention without trial, political persecution, and electoral defeats, yet remained a central figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution. His leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and his role in the 2008 power-sharing agreement solidified his status as a statesman.
Raila Odinga Education
Raila Odinga’s academic journey began at Kisumu Union Primary School and Maranda High School. He later studied in East Germany, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Magdeburg. His time in Germany exposed him to socialist ideologies and democratic activism, which would later influence his political philosophy.
Upon returning to Kenya, Odinga worked as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi and later joined the Kenya Bureau of Standards, where he rose to the position of Deputy Director.
Raila Odinga Family
Raila Odinga was married to Ida Odinga, a respected educator and activist. Together, they had four children: Fidel Castro Odinga (deceased), Rosemary Odinga, Raila Odinga Jr., and Winnie Odinga. His family played a supportive role throughout his political career, often appearing alongside him at public events and rallies.
His elder brother, Oburu Odinga, is also a prominent politician and served as a senator for Siaya County. The Odinga family has long been associated with political activism and public service in Kenya.
Raila Odinga Age
At the time of his passing in October 2025, Raila Odinga was 80 years old. He was born on January 7, 1945.
Raila Odinga Death
Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment in Kochi, India. He suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk and was rushed to Devamatha Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His death marked the end of an era in Kenyan politics, prompting tributes from leaders across Africa and beyond.
His daughter and close relatives were reportedly with him at the time of his passing. The news came after weeks of speculation about his health, which had been publicly defended by his family.
Raila Odinga Ethnicity
Raila Odinga belonged to the Luo ethnic group, one of Kenya’s major communities. The Luo people are primarily found in western Kenya, particularly around Lake Victoria. Odinga’s ethnic identity played a significant role in his political base, especially in Nyanza region.
Raila Odinga Nationality
Raila Odinga was a Kenyan citizen. He was born in Maseno, Kisumu County, and spent most of his life serving the Kenyan public through various political and civic roles.
Raila Odinga Wife
Raila Odinga was married to Ida Odinga since 1973. Ida is a prominent businesswoman, educator, and activist. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nairobi and was one of the first women to head a major Kenyan company. Throughout Raila’s political career, Ida remained a steadfast partner, often defending him publicly and supporting his campaigns.
Raila Odinga Children
Odinga and Ida Odinga had four children:
- Fidel Castro Odinga – Their firstborn son, who passed away in 2015.
- Rosemary Odinga – An entrepreneur and snail farmer, known for her resilience after losing and regaining her eyesight.
- Raila Odinga Jr. – A businessman and public figure.
- Winnie Odinga – A vocal political strategist and digital communications expert.
Raila Odinga Political Career
Odinga’s political career spanned over four decades:
- 1982 – Detained without trial for alleged involvement in a coup attempt.
- 1992–2013 – Served as Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency.
- 2001–2002 – Minister for Energy under President Moi.
- 2003–2005 – Minister of Roads, Public Works, and Housing under President Kibaki.
- 2008–2013 – Prime Minister of Kenya in a power-sharing government following the disputed 2007 election.
- 2018–2023 – African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development.
He contested the presidency five times (1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022), often challenging electoral outcomes and advocating for reforms.
Raila Odinga Daughter
Odinga had two daughters: Rosemary and Winnie.
- Rosemary Odinga was born in 1977 and is known for her work in agriculture and entrepreneurship. She earned degrees from Howard University and the University of Dallas.
- Winnie Odinga, born in 1990, is a political strategist and digital communications expert. She played a key role in her father’s 2022 campaign and has been active in youth and women’s empowerment initiatives.
Raila Odinga Brothers
Raila’s elder brother is Oburu Odinga, born in 1943. Oburu is a seasoned politician who served as a Member of Parliament and later as a Senator for Siaya County. He was a close ally of Raila and often spoke on behalf of the family during political and personal matters.
Raila Odinga Net Worth
Raila Odinga’s net worth was estimated to be in the millions of US dollars, though exact figures vary. His wealth came from a combination of political influence, business ventures, and family enterprises such as East African Spectre Limited. He was consistently listed among the wealthiest individuals in Kisumu County.
Democratic Achievements
Raila Odinga’s contributions to Kenya’s democratic landscape are profound:
- Multiparty Democracy – Played a key role in ending Kenya’s one-party rule in the early 1990s.
- 2007 Power-Sharing Agreement – Helped broker peace after post-election violence, leading to the formation of a coalition government.
- 2010 Constitution – Advocated for and supported the passage of Kenya’s new constitution, which introduced devolved governance and expanded civil liberties.
- Electoral Reforms – Pushed for transparency and accountability in Kenya’s electoral processes, including the establishment of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
His activism and leadership helped shape Kenya’s democratic institutions and inspired generations of reformists. Who is William Ruto?
Raila Odinga Political Achievements
Beyond democratic reforms, Raila Odinga’s political achievements include:
- Prime Ministership (2008–2013) – Oversaw key infrastructure projects and economic reforms during his tenure.
- Ministerial Roles – As Minister for Energy, he initiated reforms that improved electricity access. As Minister for Roads, he championed modernization of Kenya’s transport network.
- Regional Diplomacy – As AU High Representative, he promoted cross-border infrastructure development across Africa.
- Opposition Leadership – Unified opposition parties under the National Super Alliance (NASA) and later Azimio la Umoja, creating formidable political coalitions.
Despite never winning the presidency, Odinga’s influence shaped policy, governance, and public discourse in Kenya for decades