Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has extended his country’s heartfelt condolences to the people of Kenya following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Diomaye described Raila as a great leader and a pillar of African democracy.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on October 20, he said the government and people of Senegal stood in solidarity with Kenya during its period of mourning.
“Before I begin, I would like first to take this opportunity to renew the heartfelt condolences of the people of Senegal to the brotherly people of Kenya on the passing of Raila Odinga, a former Prime Minister and a great leader in the political history of Kenya,” he said.
“I pay tribute to his memory and express my deep compassion to President William Ruto, to his family, and to the people of Kenya. May his soul rest in peace.”
Raila passed away on October 15, 2025, in India, where he had gone to seek treatment.
He was laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
President Diomaye, who is in Kenya for a state visit, was the chief guest at this year’s Mashujaa Day fete, led by Ruto.
In his address, Diomaye also hailed Kenya as a model of resilience and democratic progress in Africa, commending the country’s commitment to peace and regional cooperation.
He said the friendship between Senegal and Kenya was rooted in shared values of freedom, justice, and Pan-Africanism; principles embodied by leaders such as Raila and Kenya’s founding fathers.
“Our nations share a history of struggle and a vision of an Africa that is united, peaceful and sovereign,” Diomaye noted.
“Kenya’s journey has been a source of inspiration to many across our continent.”
The Senegalese leader’s visit comes amid growing bilateral ties between Nairobi and Dakar, with both governments seeking to strengthen cooperation in trade, innovation, youth empowerment and renewable energy.
Diomaye, who took office in April 2024 as Africa’s youngest elected head of state, said the two nations were committed to advancing partnerships that promote sustainable development and the empowerment of African youth.
This year’s Mashujaa Day celebration, themed "Kawi, Ustawi, Ushujaa” (Meaning: “Energy, Prosperity, Heroism”), honours Kenya’s heroes and heroines from the independence era to modern times.
Traditionally observed on October 20, the holiday honours the freedom fighters who fought for independence and other men and women who have played a role in shaping the country.
This year, however, the atmosphere was colored by grief and remembrance as Raila’s name and legacy dominated public reflection.
