Mama Ida Odinga welcomed President William Ruto to Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, on Wednesday as preparations for the official commissioning of the Raila Odinga Mausoleum reached the final stage.
Ida made a graceful appearance in a white dress as she received the President at the family home. Her elegant look added a personal touch to the high-profile gathering attended by government officials, family members and other invited guests.
President Ruto had travelled to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi to preside over the official dedication and commissioning of the mausoleum built in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The ceremony is being held nearly a year after Raila’s death and is expected to provide an important moment for the country to reflect on his political career and contribution to Kenya.
Preparations for the event have intensified in recent days. On Tuesday, Siaya Governor James Orengo visited Ida at Opoda Farm and inspected the mausoleum ahead of its official handover.
The facility was constructed by the Kenya Defence Forces and is expected to become an important site where Kenyans can remember Raila and his long political journey.
Following the commissioning, management of the mausoleum is expected to be transferred to the National Museums of Kenya.
Due to limited space at the facility, attendance at the October 7 ceremony has been restricted to invited guests. Members of the public will be allowed to visit the mausoleum from October 8.
Meanwhile, a larger memorial ceremony is scheduled for October 15 in Bondo, giving more Kenyans an opportunity to honour Raila’s memory and legacy.
Ida’s presence at the event brought an emotional family dimension to the occasion as the nation continues to celebrate Raila’s life and influence.