The Odinga family has confirmed the final arrangements for the burial of Beryl Achieng Odinga, the youngest sister of the late Kenyan statesman Raila Amolo Odinga. Beryl, who built an extraordinary career in education, law and public service across two countries, passed away on November 25, 2025, at Nairobi Hospital. She was 78. Her death came just weeks after the passing of her brother Raila, deepening the family’s season of grief.
Her life will be remembered not only for her achievements but also for her resilience, her groundbreaking leadership roles and her unshakable commitment to improving communities both in Kenya and Zimbabwe.
Memorial and Burial Arrangements
Raila Odinga Junior announced the official programme through his X account. According to the family, a memorial service will take place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Nairobi. After the service, her body will be transported to the family’s home for final rites.
Beryl will be buried on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family’s ancestral home in Bondo, roughly 60 kilometres west of Kisumu. Ahead of the main ceremonies, the family also held an evening mass and a small fundraising gathering in Nairobi as part of the preparations.
A Remarkable Career Shaped by Determination and Vision
Beryl’s professional journey reflected a life of tireless effort and trailblazing ambition. After completing her A-Levels in 1972, she ventured into careers in both teaching and law before rising to major public administration roles.
She made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city, in the early years after the country gained independence. During her service, she led transformative urban planning reforms, including the development of the Chitungwiza Town planning strategy. Her work helped modernise the city, reduce unplanned settlements and lay the foundation for sustainable urban growth.
Her influence in Zimbabwe continued as she later served as Company Secretary at the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe. When she returned to Kenya, she continued her public service journey and was appointed in 2020 as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company, where she played a key role in strengthening service delivery.
A Life Marked by Strength, Sacrifice and Renewal
Beyond her public achievements, Beryl’s personal story was one of courage. She married Otieno Ambala, who later served as Member of Parliament for Gem, in 1974. After enduring domestic abuse, she made the courageous decision in the 1980s to leave Kenya with her children in search of safety. Zimbabwe granted her asylum, and she rebuilt her life while excelling in her professional roles. Her husband passed away in 1985.
Beryl leaves behind three children: Ami, Auma and Chizi. Her legacy lives on through her work, her leadership and her example of standing firm in the face of adversity.
Her funeral will bring together leaders, relatives and admirers to honour a woman who broke ceilings, shaped cities and inspired many through her lifelong dedication to public service.