The Odinga family is once again observing a period of profound mourning following the passing of Beryl Achieng’, sister to the late prominent politician Raila Odinga.
In an emotional and culturally significant moment, Raila Odinga’s son, Raila Odinga Junior, led family members to designate Beryl Achieng’s final resting place at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi.
Beryl Achieng’ was the daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga.
Her death was announced by her sister, Ruth Odinga, who described Beryl as a cherished and beloved member of the family. Her passing was officially reported around November 25, 2025.
A Son’s New Role
The solemn process of designating the burial site was led by Raila Odinga Junior. This act carried immense cultural weight, especially since he recently assumed the symbolic role of the family head.
Junior was installed as the head of the Odinga family during a traditional ceremony held at Opoda farm in Bondo on October 23, 2025.
This was part of the Luo mourning rites following the death of his father, Raila Odinga.
During the installation, Junior underwent a traditional head-shaving ritual to symbolise purification and the beginning of his new chapter as leader of the Odinga lineage.
"The installation is purely traditional and does not extend to political succession."
The elders presented him with a spear and shield, signifying his duty to protect and guide the family.
The Sacred Ground of Kang’o Ka Jaramogi
Beryl Achieng’ will be laid to rest at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
This homestead is the final resting place for several generations of the Odinga family.
“With the blessings of my uncle @DrOburu_O, we sat down with Jakawuor today to choose the final resting place for my late aunt, Ms. Beryl Lilian Achieng Mungwari Odinga, at Kango Kajaramogi. Further funeral arrangements and details will be shared in due course.”
ALSO READ: Final Journey Ends: Raila Laid to Rest Beside Father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in Bondo
The site is hugely significant, housing the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum. Jaramogi, Kenya’s first Vice President, was buried here in 1994. Raila Odinga was also recently laid to rest here, beside his mother, Mary Ajuma Odinga.
Other family members, including Raila's eldest son, Fidel Castro Odinga, are also interred at the family graveyard.
The location also features a lion statue at the entrance, a symbol of the family’s courage and leadership.
A Quiet Life, A Public Grief
Beryl Achieng’ was known for her quiet demeanour and maintained a low public profile despite her family’s political prominence. She was a mother to three children: Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai.
The loss, coming shortly after the death of her brother Raila Odinga, marks a period of deep sorrow for the family. The family has requested privacy as they mourn this latest loss.
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