Ida Odinga, the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, on Monday morning visited her husband’s grave in Bondo to pay her respects and observe traditional Luo mourning rituals.
Dressed in black, Mama Ida spent a quiet moment at the graveside before returning to her residence at Opoda Farm under tight security. Her solemn visit came as mourners continued to stream into Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, where Raila was laid to rest on Sunday in a private ceremony beside his late mother, Mary Ajuma.
According to Luo Council of Elders chairman Ruoth Ogai James Ayaga, Ida’s visit was in line with Luo cultural traditions, which require a widow to mourn her husband every morning for four days after the burial.
“A widow is required to mourn the husband every morning for a period of four days after cleaning the grave before she can go back to her normal duties,” Ayaga explained.
He added that cleaning the grave is a vital part of the ritual, symbolically setting the widow free. Traditionally, both the widow and sons of the deceased would be shaved as part of the mourning rites, although modern practice allows for a symbolic haircut instead.
Security at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi remains tight as thousands continue to visit the site to honour Raila Odinga’s memory. The late opposition leader is remembered as a symbol of hope, resilience, and liberation for many Kenyans.
On Sunday, a brief disturbance occurred after some mourners invaded the burial site and destroyed wreaths before police intervened. Despite the incident, tributes continue to pour in as the Odinga family observes the four-day mourning period.
During the state funeral service, Mama Ida gave a heartfelt tribute, saying she never imagined she would have to bury her husband. “With pain, without lamentation, I accept the will of God,” she said, capturing the nation’s collective grief and admiration for her strength.
