Raila’s sister Wenwa recalls her deep bond with late Beryl Achieng
By Kenneth Mwenda, November 30, 2025Raila Odinga’s younger sister, Wenwa Akinyi Odinga Oranga, spoke of her close relationship with her late sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, during a church service and Holy Mass held in her memory on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The event took place at House No. 5, Mwingi Villas, Mwingi Road, Kileleshwa, Nairobi.
Wenwa recalled how close she was to Beryl while growing up, being among the youngest children of the late Jaramogi Odinga.
“I’d like to introduce myself. I’m Wenwa Akinyi Odinga Oranga. Beryl is my immediate follower, and we grew up together,” Wenwa said
“It was always Akinyi, Achieng, Achieng, Akinyi, Akinyi, Achieng. I just want to thank everybody once more, and also especially the Catholic Church, for agreeing at very short notice to give Beryl a decent send-off. And I thank you very much. God bless you all.”
The Mass brought together family, friends, and supporters who came to honour Beryl, daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice president, and Mary Ajuma Oginga. Beryl, a devoted mother to three children, Ami, Auma, and Chizi, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, weeks after the nation mourned the death of her brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Wenwa’s tribute formed the emotional core of the service. She reflected on their shared upbringing and the closeness that marked their relationship, offering those present a personal view of Beryl beyond her public profile.
Ruth Odinga offers thanks
Her other younger sister, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to attendees for their support.
“I’d like to also say thank you to my colleagues who have come to stand with me. I can see you all. And thank you so much for coming and supporting me, and everybody else who has come to be with us. We are so happy. We are so grateful.”
Ruth also stated that they were afraid to publicly announce the death of their sister, which came a few weeks after Raila’s burial.
“We’re even scared to tell people that we’ve got another death, because you know it’s not easy. But being here for us makes us strong. God bless you. Thank you,” she said.
The service included prayers, scripture readings, and reflections on Beryl’s life.
The family also appealed to Kenyans of goodwill to assist with funeral arrangements. Ruth Odinga shared details of the service on her official Facebook page, describing it as an evening of prayer, remembrance, and support as we honour the life and legacy of Beryl Achieng Odinga.
She encouraged contributions to the Beryl Achieng Odinga Funeral Fund.
“Together, we extend our heartfelt comfort and solidarity to the family she loved so dearly. With love, please send your support. Rest in eternal peace, Beryl.”