Since the late opposition leader Raila Odinga was laid to rest in Bondo, Siaya County, ten weeks ago, his final resting place has transformed into an extraordinary national shrine. What was once a peaceful rural homestead has become a living memorial, attracting thousands of visitors from all corners of Kenya and beyond. The pilgrimage to Kango Ka Jaramogi, where Raila’s grave lies, continues to grow each day, especially during this festive season.
A Place of Reflection and Tribute
At the heart of this living shrine are traditional Luo drummers and singers who have kept a constant vigil at Raila’s graveside. Every day, from morning until evening, the soulful rhythms of drums and the beautiful melodies of Luo music fill the air. These musicians perform not for payment, but as a personal tribute to the man they affectionately called “Baba.” One drummer explained, “We come here every day from 8 am to 6 pm. We are not paid. If mourners feel touched, they may tip us.”
Their presence adds to the emotional atmosphere as mourners from all walks of life arrive—some from nearby villages, others traveling from distant counties, and even neighbouring countries like Sudan. Recently, cyclists even made the long journey from Malindi to pay their respects, underlining the far-reaching impact Raila had on people’s lives.
Millions of Visitors and Overflowing Tributes
The steady stream of mourners has far surpassed the expectations of Raila’s family. His younger brother, Omondi Odinga, shared that at least nine million people have passed through the gates of Kango Ka Jaramogi since the burial. “The love for Raila was not just political; it was deeply personal,” Omondi reflected. The grave has become surrounded by an ever-growing mountain of floral tributes, with wreaths and flowers arriving daily, many of which are carefully collected and maintained by the family. “The flowers are overwhelming, but we manage them with dignity,” Omondi said.
The constant flow of tributes shows that Raila was not only a political figure but also a father figure to many Kenyans. His legacy continues to inspire deep affection, gratitude, and remembrance.
An Unexpected Economic Boost for Bondo
The influx of visitors has sparked a micro-economic revival in Bondo. Small-scale traders, once struggling to make ends meet, are now seeing increased business. Locals sell food, memorabilia, and clothing featuring Raila’s image. “We sell caps with Jakom’s image,” said Anastacia Anyango, a local trader. “People loved him, so when they see the caps, they buy them and help promote our business.” The demand has been so high that the prices of these items have doubled—caps that once cost Sh500 now go for up to Sh1,000.
This economic uplift has been a silver lining for many in the area, who are using the ongoing pilgrimage to not only honour Raila’s memory but also to support their livelihoods.
A Christmas of Reflection and Tribute
For many Kenyans, this Christmas season is not about traditional celebrations in malls or on beaches. Instead, it’s about making a reflective journey to Bondo. For some, it’s a quiet moment to stand beside the grave, listen to the drums, and pay their respects to a man whose influence and leadership continue to echo far beyond his final resting place.
As the festive season peaks, the pilgrimage to Raila Odinga’s final resting place shows no signs of slowing. The journey to Kango Ka Jaramogi has become more than a visit—it’s a powerful symbol of love, respect, and the enduring legacy of a leader who shaped the lives of millions of Kenyans.
