Winnie Odinga made a poignant visit to Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family’s ancestral home in Bondo, in early October 2026, as the family gears up to mark the first anniversary of her father Raila Odinga’s death.
The visit was far more than a sentimental homecoming. Cultural elders conducted a symbolic coronation of Winnie during the gathering, a ceremony widely seen as a formal acknowledgement of her stepping into a prominent leadership role in the wake of her father’s passing.
Why Winnie Odinga visited Kang’o ka Jaramogi
The occasion drew together a cross-section of the community, including elders, veterans, women and young people, many of whom had been carrying words they never got the chance to share with Raila before he died. The gathering gave them the space to finally say them aloud.
Winnie shared a reflective post on [Instagram following the visit, writing:
“Baba left too soon for many to say goodbye properly. The elders, veterans, women and young people came together to share the words they had held onto.”
She added that she, too, received guidance from those present:
“I received my fair share of counsel, too. Some things must be done properly.”
The visit coincided with final preparations at Kang’o ka Jaramogi for the Raila Odinga Mausoleum, which was reported to be over 95% complete at the time. The government-funded mausoleum was scheduled for an official state handover on 7 October 2026, forming a centrepiece of the first anniversary commemorations.
Kenyans following Winnie closely responded to the clip with a wave of emotion and support:
@nurse_akoth:
“Eeeeei Chogo…you embody Baba in everything ❤️chalo mana lek😭🥹Jowiiiii”
@ndongarick:
“Hii ya baba itabaki kutuuma for ages 😢. You’re stepping up nicely and we so happy as Baba’s loyal supporters. Long live the king! JOWI!”
@immaculate_hue:
“Long Live The Crown 👑”
@ferrariminboys:
“Long live the Crown”
@nyar_ondego:
“Sina la kusema ila keep resting in peace Baba”
