Raila Amollo Odinga was a towering figure in Kenya’s political history—revered, controversial, and deeply influential.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu District, Raila was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, and Mary Juma Odinga.
His education began at Kisumu Union Primary and Maranda Primary in Bondo before proceeding to Maranda High School, where he studied until 1962.
In 1965, he received a scholarship to the Technical College of Magdeburg in East Germany, graduating in 1970 with a certificate in Welding.
His academic and technical grounding shaped a disciplined, analytical approach that later defined his political career. Raila served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in the Grand Coalition Government, following the disputed 2007 elections.
His leadership symbolised dialogue and reform, bridging political divides during one of Kenya’s most fragile periods.
A lifelong advocate for democracy and justice, Raila’s influence extended beyond politics—he embodied Kenya’s struggle for multiparty freedom and equitable governance. He died on October 15, 2025, aged 80.
