In a rare and touching revelation, Rosemary Odinga, daughter of veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, recently shared intimate details about a special family trip to India—one of the last trips they took together before the passing of her mother, Beryl Odinga, in 2024.
The story, shared during a candid interview, offers Kenyans a unique glimpse into the personal lives of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families, reminding us that behind the headlines and heated rallies, there are cherished moments of togetherness, love, and quiet reflection.
1. The Setting: A Journey to India
The trip, which took place in late 2023, wasn’t political—it was personal. Raila Odinga, accompanied by his wife Beryl, daughter Rosemary, and brother Oburu Odinga, traveled to India primarily for health-related consultations. But what unfolded was far more than a medical visit.
“It was so rare to have that kind of time together, just us as a family, away from everything,” Rosemary recalled. “No politics, no cameras, no pressures. Just us.”
2. “It Was So Rare”: Why This Trip Stood Out
Rosemary highlighted several reasons why this trip remains etched in her memory:
A. Undivided Family Time
With Raila’s demanding political schedule and the family’s public life, uninterrupted time together was a precious commodity.
For once, they weren’t “the Odingas” of Kenyan politics—they were just a family supporting each other.
B. A Blend of Care and Camaraderie
The trip combined medical care with moments of lighthearted exploration.
They visited local markets, shared meals, and even cracked inside jokes away from the public eye.
C. Strength in Family Unity
Rosemary emphasized how her mother, Beryl, remained the family’s anchor—calm, graceful, and full of quiet strength even while managing her own health.
Brother Oburu’s presence added a layer of familial solidarity and support.
3. Beryl Odinga: The Heart of the Family
Rosemary’s recollections painted a moving portrait of her late mother, Beryl Odinga, who passed away in January 2024 after a long illness:
Her Resilience: Even in India for health reasons, Beryl focused on ensuring the family stayed positive.
Her Grace: Rosemary noted how her mother handled attention from Kenyans in the diaspora with humility and warmth.
Her Legacy: This trip became one of their last shared memories as a complete family unit.
4. Raila Odinga: Not Just “The Enigma”
Away from the political stage, Rosemary shared glimpses of Raila as a father and husband:
Attentive and Present: He was fully engaged in family conversations and decisions.
Humorous and Relaxed: The trip allowed his lighter, less-seen side to emerge.
A Partner in Care: He was deeply involved in ensuring both Beryl and the family were comfortable and supported.
5. The Sibling Bond: Rosemary & Oburu
Rosemary also spoke fondly of her brother Oburu Odinga’s role:
As both a brother and a political confidant to Raila, Oburu provided a bridge between family and public life.
His presence added a sense of continuity and familial solidarity.
6. Why This Story Resonates with Kenyans
In a nation where political families are often only seen through a lens of power, controversy, or tragedy, Rosemary’s sharing offers:
Relatability: Every family cherishes those rare, unplugged moments together.
Humanization: It reminds the public that leaders are also parents, children, and siblings.
A Softer Legacy: Beyond political battles, the Odinga family’s story is also one of love, resilience, and unity.
7. The Bittersweet Timing: One of the Last Memories
With Beryl’s passing just months after this trip, the India journey gained deeper emotional weight. Rosemary’s reflection underscores:
The importance of making time for family amid busy lives.
How shared journeys can become sacred memories after a loved one is gone.
The quiet strength that families draw from each other during challenging times.
