Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan./HANDOUT
China has joined global powers in mourning Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack while undergoing treatment in India.
In Kenya, Chinese ambassador Guo Haiyan paid glowing tribute to Raila, saying Beijing was cognisant of his role in advancing its relations with Nairobi. Ambassador Guo said she was "deeply saddened by the passing of the former Prime Minister."
The envoy said Raila has made significant contributions that have grown China-Kenya relations.
"As an old friend of the Chinese people, he made significant contributions to advancing China-Kenya relations and promoting friendly exchanges between our two nations," Ambassador Guo said on Wednesday.
"Our sincere condolences to his family. May he rest in peace," she stated.
As Prime Minister, Raila was also instrumental in strengthening infrastructure cooperation. He served as PM from 2008 to 2013.
It was in this period when major projects under Kenya's Vision 2030 took root. He often emphasized Kenya's strategic non-alignment and the importance of balanced partnerships with various global powers.
His engagement with China was consistent, driven by a focus on practical outcomes in trade, industry, technology, and infrastructure. Kenya and China have ongoing discussions on development projects, and strengthening of ties between the two countries.
During his discussion with Guo, he said China has been with Kenya since independence, acknowledging how Beijing has financed development projects in the country. Over time, Raila said he had a keen interest in the "growth of the mutual relationship between Kenya and China."
The United States also joined the global community in mourning the former Prime Minister.
In a statement, the US described him as a statesman who devoted his life to the service of his nation, the African continent, and democracy.
The message conveyed heartfelt condolences to Raila’s family, friends, and the people of Kenya following his passing.
“The United States offers sincere condolences to the family, friends, loved ones, and all Kenyans over the passing of the Right Honorable Raila Odinga,” the statement read.
Washington lauded the opposition leader’s long-standing relationship with the United States, noting that he had forged “deep connections with the American people and our elected leaders” during his numerous visits to the country over the decades.
Raila, a respected reformist and five-time presidential contender, was known internationally for his commitment to multi-party democracy and social justice.
The statement further recognised Raila's continental influence, saying he worked tirelessly to advance peace, unity, and development in Africa.
