Kenya and 5 Other African Countries that Held State Funerals in 2025

Throughout 2025, the African continent paused several times to bid farewell to iconic leaders and national figures.

From independence heroes to modern political giants, these state funerals marked the end of various eras across several nations.

Kenya Mourns a "Democracy Giant"

Kenya held a state funeral on 19 October 2025 for former Prime Minister and veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga. He passed away at the age of 80 in India while receiving treatment.

President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning starting on 15 October. During this period, the national flag was flown at half-mast to honour the man Ruto described as a fearless fighter for good governance.

"Raila Amolo Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our republic: a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, and our pursuit for excellence," President Ruto stated during a televised address.

Legal Tensions in Zambia

Zambia experienced a protracted and public dispute following the death of former President Edgar Lungu on 5 June 2025. Lungu died at age 68 in South Africa.

A legal battle broke out between his family and the Zambian government. The family wanted a private burial in South Africa.

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The state demanded his return for a formal burial at the national leaders' site.

In August, a South African court eventually ordered the repatriation of his remains. The judge ruled that the state's right to honour a former leader outweighs private family wishes.

As of late December 2025, former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has not been buried, with his body remaining in South Africa amidst a complex legal and political dispute between his family and the Zambian government over his final resting place

Ghana’s Double Loss

Ghana held a solemn state funeral on 15 August 2025 for eight people who died in a military helicopter crash. The victims included the Defence Minister and the Environment Minister.

President John Mahama declared three days of national mourning. He also announced a welfare fund of Gh 500,000 to support the children of those who perished.

Later in 29 October, the nation also prepared to honour former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. She was the country’s longest-serving First Lady, holding the title for 19 years.

Nigeria Bids Farewell to Buhari

In July 2025, Nigeria honoured former President Muhammadu Buhari with a state burial and full military honours. He died in a London hospital at the age of 82.

President Bola Tinubu declared seven days of national mourning and a public holiday. Supporters in his home town of Daura climbed trees and chanted "Sai Baba" as the former leader was laid to rest in his backyard.

The Last Liberator in Namibia

Namibia held a state funeral for its founding President, Sam Nujoma, on 1 March 2025. He died in February at the age of 95.

The nation observed a 21-day mourning period. Nujoma was buried at Heroes’ Acre cemetery with a 21-gun salute and a flypast by the Air Force.

South Africa’s Official Farewells

South Africa also saw several high-profile funerals. Former Deputy President David Mabuza was honoured with a Category 2 state funeral on 12 July 2025.

President Cyril Ramaphosa declared six days of mourning for the leader, who passed away at 64. In September, the nation also held a special official funeral for Ambassador Mahlangu.