Final preparations underway for Raila’s send-off at Opoda Farm
By Kiprono Keileb, October 19, 2025Final preparations are in top gear at Opoda Farm in Bondo and at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University, Siaya County, ahead of the burial of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga to be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
The mood in the area is one of deep reflection and emotion, as thousands of mourners continue to stream in to pay their final respects to a man many describe as Kenya’s greatest political icon.
Security has been tightened in and around Opoda Farm, with officers stationed at all entry points to ensure order and smooth coordination during the event. Every corner of the compound is under close watch as the country prepares to bid farewell to a leader who dedicated his life to democracy, justice, and equality.
By 4:00 am., crowds had already begun walking from Seme and surrounding areas, making their way to Opoda farm and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University, just a 15-minute drive from the Odinga homestead. Many were draped in national colours and ODM party attire, singing liberation songs that have defined Raila’s long political journey.
Raila’s body will be airlifted from Kisumu to Opoda Farm by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to avoid the chaotic scenes like the ones witnessed in Nairobi during the public farewell. The airlift is expected to take place in the morning, with thousands already lining up along the roads to witness the arrival.
According to the burial programme, the interment ceremony is expected to begin around 1:00 p.m. The proceedings will include prayers, tributes from family and national leaders, and a symbolic final salute to the man fondly known as Baba.
The atmosphere in Bondo is heavy with emotion but marked by peace and order as residents heed the calls for calm and dignity. Shops and businesses in nearby centres have remained closed, with locals choosing to join the historic farewell.
As the sun rises over Lake Victoria, the people of Nyanza and Kenyans at large prepare to lay to rest a leader whose voice and courage defined generations. Opoda Farm, Raila’s rural home, has become a place of pilgrimage, the final resting place of a man who fought, dreamed, and lived for Kenya.