Christina Shusho honours Rail with 'Pumzika Baba' tribute song

Renowned Tanzanian gospel artist Christina Shusho has referred to Raila Odinga as a reformist in her recently released tribute song titled “Pumzika Baba” in honor of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on October 15 while undergoing treatment in Kerala, India.

The song, which translates to “Rest, Father”, has struck a chord with millions across East Africa, offering comfort and reflection during a period of national mourning.

 Shusho refers to Raila as a “mwanamageuzi” — a reformist —a term rooted in Swahili political discourse that signals his long struggle for constitutional reforms, democracy, and good governance.

Through this description, the song frames Odinga not merely as a political actor but as a transformational force whose life transcended partisan lines.

 This highlighted his lifelong commitment to justice, democracy, and transformation. The term, which holds weight in political discourse, underscores Raila’s role in reshaping Kenya’s governance landscape over the past four decades.

"He fought for Kenyans and Africa at large, Africa is crying for Baba,"Shusho added in the song,"we loved him but God loved him more, rest Baba."

The lyrics unfold as a solemn invocation, urging listeners to pause, reflect, and “let him rest.”

The song’s tone shifts from lamentation to exhortation: mourners are asked to remember his sacrifices and carry forward his vision. A melodic prayer weaves together themes of unity, peace, healing, and perseverance.

" Ulikuwa mtetezi wa wanyonge, mtetezi wa Kenya na Africa , ulijitoa kwa ajili ya Kenya , hatutasahau uongozi wako," Shusho added. 

The tribute blends soft gospel instrumentation with poetic lyrics that celebrate Raila’s legacy not only as a political figure but as a father, mentor, and symbol of resilience.

The song opens with a solemn invocation, calling on Kenyans to remember Raila’s sacrifices and uphold the values he championed.

It transitions into a melodic prayer for peace, unity, and healing. Christina Shusho, known for her spiritually uplifting music, said the tribute was her way of honoring a man who “stood for truth and the dignity of all people.”

" Kenya is like my second home, i had to stand with them as we celebrate this great son of Africa," Shusho added in a statement on her official platforms.

The release of “Pumzika Baba” has sparked emotional reactions online, with fans praising Shusho for capturing the spirit of the moment.

“This song speaks to our hearts. Raila was our Baba, and this tribute reminds us to carry his vision forward,” one listener commented. 

Memorial services are planned in Bondo, Kisumu, and the capital, where he will be laid to rest beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

As Kenya continues its seven-day mourning period, “Pumzika Baba” joins a growing chorus of tributes from across the region, reminding Kenyans that Raila Odinga’s legacy lives on — not just in history books, but in the hearts and songs of those he inspired.