Ruto, mourners honour Raila with emotional rendition of ‘Jamaica Farewell’

As the soft, nostalgic melody filled the air, the crowd — including foreign dignitaries, regional leaders, and citizens from across the country — joined the President in song, their voices blending in tribute to a man whose life and struggle defined Kenya’s democratic journ..
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At Nyayo National Stadium, President William Ruto led thousands of mourners in an emotional rendition of Harry Belafonte’s “Jamaica Farewell,” the late Raila Odinga’s favorite song, during his funeral service on Friday, October 17. The poignant tribute honored Odinga’s life and decades-long struggle for Kenya’s democracy.
- The song, originally by legendary American singer Harry Belafonte, was described by President Ruto as a “melody of longing and gentle sorrow.”
- Attendees included Mama Ida Odinga, the Odinga family, visiting heads of state, and Kenyan leaders from across the political spectrum.
- President Ruto described Raila Odinga as a man who had “sailed many seas for the sake of his country” and whose heart “belonged to the people,” enduring years of imprisonment and struggle for the "principle of service."
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Tributes to Raila Odinga from Political Leaders and Family - October 2025
During the State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, President William Ruto delivered a moving tribute, acknowledging Raila Odinga's role in steadying his administration and describing him as a statesman. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also delivered a eulogy, vowing to uphold Odinga's legacy and sharing personal anecdotes. Odinga's daughter, Winnie, recounted his final moments in India, stating he died "strong, with dignity, and with pride." His brother, Dr. Oburu Oginga, recalled Raila's exceptional childhood brilliance, while his long-serving bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, described him as a mentor and father.