Nairobi, Kenya | September 17, 2026 — Idah Odinga, the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, has unveiled a National Steering Committee to coordinate activities marking the first anniversary of his death.
Speaking during a press conference at Capitol Hill in Nairobi on Thursday, September 17, Idah said the celebrations would be family-led but open to Kenyans across the country, describing Raila’s legacy as one that transcended political, regional and ideological divisions.
“The true essence of Right Honorable Raila Amollo Odinga belonged the entire nation. His life was defined by a tireless commitment to bring people together, transcending political regions and ideological divides in pursuit for unifying democratic Kenya,” she said.
Idah said the first anniversary would provide an opportunity for Kenyans who were unable to mourn Raila in the manner they wished to come together and celebrate his life.“As we approach the first anniversary of his passing, we recognize that his legacy belongs to every Kenyan who believes in democracy, justice, and peace, including those who held different political viewpoints, as we were united in the shared desire for a better Kenya,” she said.
National Institutions to Honour Raila’s Legacy
The widow said several institutions had initiated programmes aimed at preserving and promoting Raila’s legacy.She cited Daystar University, which has commenced plans for an elaborate symposium in his memory, as well as the University of Nairobi, which is establishing the Raila Odinga Center for Democracy.
The centre is expected to be officially launched during the anniversary week.
The Kenya School of Government has also established the Raila Odinga Regional Leadership Academy, which has been designated as a centre of excellence focusing on governance practices, public sector leadership and public administration studies.
“To ensure that this noble institution effort all national tribute maintains maximum cohesion, dignity, singular purpose, the family has instituted a national steering committee,” Idah said.
She added that all commemorative activities and institutional initiatives would be undertaken under the guidance of the committee.
“Please note that all the commemorative activities, events, and institutional initiative regarding the celebration of the Right Honorable Raila Odinga will be accorded and conducted under the direct guidance of this committee,” she said.
Professor Adams Oloo to Chair Committee
Idah said the National Steering Committee brings together representatives from the government, political institutions, civil society, academia, the private sector and the Odinga family.The committee is chaired by Professor Adams Oloo, with former Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo and Jua Kali serving in the leadership of the committee, according to Idah’s remarks.
“But these celebrations does not belong to the committee. It belongs to the people, from Mwater to Mombasa, from Turkana to Kajiado, from Busia to Garissa, from Nairobi to Meru, and everywhere else in between, Baba’s people are all welcome,” Idah said.
She noted that the anniversary celebrations would give Kenyans an opportunity to participate in various activities as they remember Raila’s life and contribution to the country.
“We know that many Kenyans did not have the opportunity to mourn him in the way they wished. This week is therefore also an opportunity to come together, to participate, to sing, to remember, to tell stories, and celebrate the extraordinary life shared with Baba Raila Amollo Odinga,” she said.
Sports, Music and Laughter to Feature
Idah said the celebrations would deliberately focus on Raila’s personality and the things he enjoyed during his lifetime.
“We deliberately call for a celebration of his life. Baba loved people. He loved sports, particularly soccer, can think of Arsenal’s, Gor Mahia. He loved music. He loved laughter. He loved debate and the energy of the crowd,” she said.
“We therefore want to commemorate, to carry that same spirit. Nobody who loved Baba should feel left behind. We’re all included.”
The National Steering Committee is expected to announce the official calendar of activities, which will run from October 10 to October 17, alongside details on how individuals, communities and organisations can participate.