Raila Odinga, Kenya’s longtime opposition leader and former Prime Minister, was not only a political figure but also a devoted family man.
With his wife, Ida Odinga, he raised four children, Fidel, Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie.
Each of them carries a name with a story that reflects the family’s values and history.
Fidel Castro Odhiambo Odinga
Fidel was Raila and Ida’s firstborn, born in 1973. He was named after Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, whom Raila admired for his courage. Ida was unsure about the name at first, but Raila’s admiration for the Cuban leader convinced her.
Fidel kept a low profile but was well-known in social and business circles. On January 4, 2015, he was found dead in his bed at his Karen home after a night out with friends. The cause of his death has never been made public.
He left behind his wife, Lwam Getachew Bekele, and their son, Allay Odinga. He also has twin sons born shortly after his death.
His death deeply affected the Odinga family and remains one of their most painful memories.
Rosemary Odinga
Rosemary, born in 1977, is the second child. Her name combines both her grandmothers’ names — “Rose” from Ida’s mother and “Mary” from Raila’s mother.
She is best known as a snail farmer and entrepreneur. In 2017, she expressed interest in politics and even aimed for the Kibera parliamentary seat once held by her father. However, her plans were halted after she suffered a brain aneurysm and tumor that led to temporary blindness.
Rosemary sought treatment in Kerala, India, and by 2022, she had regained her sight at the same Ayurvedic facility where her father later received care. She is also a mother of two daughters.
Raila Oginga Odinga (Raila Junior)
Born in 1979, Raila Junior was not actually named after his father, as many assume, but after Raila’s cousin and close friend, Raila Kimbo.
He has been married to Yvonne Wambui Kibukosya since 2011, and they have one son. Junior has spoken openly about their struggles to conceive, showing a more personal side of the family.
Unlike his siblings, Junior has mostly stayed out of politics and focuses on business and creative ventures.
Winnie Irmgard Odinga
Winnie, the lastborn, was born on March 6, 1990, eleven years after Junior. Her name was inspired by Winnie Mandela. Ida was in the labour room when she watched Nelson Mandela walk out of prison holding hands with his wife, Winnie Mandela.
That is when Ida decided to name her child Winnie if it was a girl, and Wilson if it was a boy.
Today, Winnie Odinga represents Kenya as a member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
She is outspoken, bold, and active in politics, following in her father’s footsteps. She was with Raila Odinga in India when he breathed his last.
By Vivian K.