Defence CS Soipan Tuya, CS Wycliffe Oparanya, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's family led by ODM party leader Oburu Oginga and Son Raila Junior say a prayer at his gravesite in Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
The government has unveiled the design of the Raila Amolo
Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, saying the monument will preserve the
late statesman's legacy while serving as a national heritage and cultural site.
The unveiling was followed by a groundbreaking ceremony at
Raila's gravesite in Kango Ka Jaramogi, where family members, government
officials and other leaders gathered for prayers before construction began.
Among those present were Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan
Tuya, Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya,
ODM party leader Oburu Oginga, Raila Odinga Jr and other members of the Odinga
family.
Presentations on the architectural design for the Raila Amollo Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
The mausoleum is intended to protect Raila's final resting place while honouring his contribution to Kenya's political history.
The facility will also serve as a living classroom to
educate future generations, preserve public memory and act as a symbol of
national identity and unity where Kenyans from all backgrounds can gather.
Presentations on the architectural design for the Raila Amollo Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
The mausoleum is also expected to provide a permanent space
for mourning, remembrance and cultural ceremonies, while preserving Luo
traditions through songs, prayers and anniversary commemorations.
The project is expected to boost heritage tourism by attracting both local and international visitors, creating employment opportunities and enhancing cultural diplomacy.
The proposed mausoleum features a pentagonal design inspired by Luo traditions and Raila Odinga's political legacy.
Defence CS Soipan Tuya during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a mausoleum in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, with the project expected to be completed within two months on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
According to the concept brief, the five-sided structure also pays tribute to the historic Pentagon Alliance, which brought together leaders from different regions in pursuit of a shared national vision.
The number five symbolises completeness and honour, while the clenched fist associated with the design represents strength, power, unity, solidarity, resolve and collective purpose.
The government said the design seeks to blend cultural
heritage with national symbolism, ensuring Raila Odinga's legacy is preserved
for generations to come.
The government begins the construction of a mausoleum in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, with the project expected to be completed within two months / FAITH MATETE.
Defence CS Soipan Tuya; CS Wycliffe Oparanya; and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's family, led by ODM party leader Oburu Oginga and Son Raila Junior say a prayer at his gravesite in Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
Defence CS Soipan Tuya, CS Wycliffe Oparanya; former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's family led by ODM party leader Oburu Oginga and Son Raila Junior among other officials, in Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County on July 20, 2026 / FAITH MATETE
