As Kenya gathers for the State Funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, one song has quietly become the soundtrack of the nation’s mourning, “Jamaica Farewell” by Harry Belafonte. Raila often referred to the song as one of his favourites.

This morning, October 17, 2025, Raila’s body was taken to Parliament Buildings, where it lies in state before being moved to Nyayo Stadium for the State Funeral set to begin at exactly 9 am. The short stop at Parliament was meant to provide a moment of national reflection and allow final preparations before the main service.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who chairs the National Committee for the State Funeral, confirmed that the ceremony at Nyayo will last two hours and include full military honours, a sermon by the Anglican Church of Kenya, and tributes from both local and foreign leaders.

Around Nyayo, the atmosphere is heavy with emotion. Groups of mourners have gathered in silence, some softly humming the tune that Baba loved so much.

Baba won’t be back for many a day

The song, a 1950s Caribbean ballad by Belafonte, tells the story of departure, of leaving behind a beloved place and people. To Raila’s supporters, its lyrics now carry a haunting new meaning.

“But I’m sad to say I’m on my way,
Won’t be back for many a day,
My heart is down, my head is turning around,
I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.“

The processions continue under tight security, with the casket draped in the national flag and bearing the Coat of Arms inside, a symbol of the state honours accorded to him.

At Nyayo Stadium, the State Funeral will begin promptly at 9 a.m. and run for two hours. The ceremony will feature eulogies from family members and tributes from world leaders, including several African presidents who have already arrived in the country.

After the official service, Kindiki announced, the public will again have an opportunity to view Raila’s body at Nyayo Stadium from noon into the afternoon.

“We will stretch the opportunity as long as possible,” he said, “so that every Kenyan who wishes to pay their last respects can do so.”

Thursday’s viewing at Kasarani Stadium had drawn massive crowds, forcing the government to extend the hours and later move part of the viewing to Parliament due to security and logistical concerns.

Raila’s journey from Kasarani to Parliament and finally to Nyayo has been marked by calm dignity, the kind of order he often called for during moments of national reflection. And today, “My Heart Is Down” feels less like a song and more like a farewell message from the man many simply called Baba.

“Sad to say I’m on my way,
Won’t be back for many a day…“