Cultural elders have symbolically crowned Winnie Odinga at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo. The ceremony came days before the family marks a year since the death of her father, Raila Odinga.
The visit took place in early October 2026. Kang'o ka Jaramogi is the Odinga ancestral home in Siaya County.
Raila was buried there in October 2025, beside his mother, Mary Ajuma. His own father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya's first Vice-President, has rested there since 1994.
During the gathering, cultural elders performed a symbolic coronation of Winnie. Observers have described it as a formal nod to the leadership role she has taken on since her father's passing.
A chance to say goodbye
The gathering drew people from all walks of the community. Elders, veterans, women and young people were all there. Many had been carrying messages for Raila since he died. At Kang'o ka Jaramogi, they finally spoke them.
Winnie posted a reflection on Instagram after the visit.
"Baba left too soon for many to say goodbye properly," she wrote. "The elders, veterans, women and young people came together to share the words they had held onto."
She said she also 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 for the Raila Odinga Mausoleum at the site. It was reported to be more than 95 per cent complete. It is expected to be a centrepiece of the anniversary commemorations.
Supporters react
Winnie's followers responded warmly to a clip of the visit on social media.
sir_griffins-254: "The King is dead but long live the crown👑 but I must say that body language from Winnie is just like Baba😢"
ritchie _kama: "Baba's spirits still lives in Winnie. Strictly Winnie, the rest ni story za jaba"
zuchu_baiby: "As the days goes pain the pain of losing Baba is still unbearable 😢...."
@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!"
@nyar_ondego: "Sina la kusema ila keep resting in peace Baba"
