- Several South African leaders and members of an ACK church conducted a memorial service for the late Raila Odinga
- Raila Odinga was buried within 72 hours following his sudden demise while recuperating in Kerala, India
- The South Africans remembered his impact and political influence in Kenya and across the globe and appealed to Kenyans to continue his legacy
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
A South African church has paid emotional last respects to the late former prime minister Raila Odinga, who died suddenly in India on October 15, 2025.
Source: Youtube
Raila had been recuperating in Kerala, where he succumbed to cardiac arrest just days after returning from Mumbai, where he was undergoing treatment for a blood clot.
His death sparked national mourning and tributes across the world. According to his will, Raila was buried within 72 hours, a period supporters termed short.
Many leaders and fans observed the traditional 40-day Luo mourning period, visiting his family and laying wreaths in his honour.
Which South African church honoured Raila?
An emotional service on November 1, 2025, was held at St. Stephen Anglican Church in Sunninghill, Johannesburg, where clergy led by Father Trevor Prince and leaders joined members in paying tribute to the fallen statesman.
“We give thanks for the life of Raila, and we pray that it may have the liberation shared today that we may combine with the ancestors, mainly the chief ancestor Jesus Christ,” Father Prince said.
Ambassador Sunya Orre, deputy head of mission in Pretoria, revealed that similar memorial events are being organised globally to celebrate Raila’s enduring impact and contributions.
How did South Africans eulogise Raila?
Orre
“Never before in the history of Kenya has one man’s death affected the country and in such a manner. He chose to dedicate his entire life to fighting for democracy, human rights, and equal rights, among others. Indeed, Kenya and Africa owe him democracy and constitutionalism. He left a gap, which is unbelievable, but such is life. He was a voice of wisdom.”
Pretoria Ambassador Kintu Nyago—Ugandan Deputy High Commissioner
“The contributions he made were inspiring. We felt touched.”
Moeletsi Mbeki-Congregant and economist
“Raila was a great Pan-African, and I am very proud to have been associated with him. He was really admired by Kenyans.”
Molly Dhlamini of the South African Communist Party
“He fought for multi-democracy in Kenya, which will forever be remembered. Our request is, as much as he has passed, his seed of passing will yield the continued struggle for economic, political, and cultural justice in the African continent.”
Steve Ajulu-Raila’s relative
“For me it was very sad to see him go, but we also must remember that he was 80. Instead of mourning him, we should rather celebrate his life, and that was the theme we had today. He was really loved by Kenyans.”
Yieke Ajulu-Raila’s relative
“He told me that real strength is not about power but about standing up for others and never giving up.’
Geoffrey Simiyu of the ODM party, South African branch
“Please accept our gratitude for your messages of sympathy and goodwill following the demise of our departed leader and mentor. We have been touched by your thoughtfulness and kindness, especially in your holding a memorial service to celebrate the life and times of Raila.”
Source: Youtube
What happened to Raila Odinga’s sister?
Meanwhile, as the world continues to mourn Raila, his sister, Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, also passed away while undergoing treatment in a Nairobi hospital.
Achieng’, a teacher and lawyer, was remembered as a hardworking woman with a significant impact in Kenya and across Africa.
Despite her politically influential background, she maintained a low profile and did not participate in politics.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
