‘Baba’s death has deeply pained Tanzania’: Alikiba mourns Raila Odinga
Tanzanian music superstar Alikiba has joined millions across Africa in mourning the late Raila Amollo Odinga, describing the Kenyan opposition leader’s death as a loss that has been felt deeply beyond Kenya’s borders.
Speaking to a local media outlet in Nairobi on Friday, October 18, 2025, Alikiba said the grief over Raila’s passing has spread across the continent, particularly in Tanzania, where Raila was admired for his decades-long fight for democracy and justice.
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“Ningependa kuwapa pole Wakenya wote. Huu msiba umewagusa watu wengi sana, hasa watu wa Afrika, kwa sababu Baba alikuwa mwanaharakati mkubwa sana na mzazi wetu wote,” Alikiba said.
“Vuguvugu na maumivu pia yamesikika mpaka Tanzania; tunaomboleza kwa pamoja.”
(“I would like to send my condolences to all Kenyans. This tragedy has touched so many people across Africa because Baba was a great activist and a father figure to us all. The pain has been felt even in Tanzania; we are mourning together.”)
The award-winning singer, known for his hit songs ‘Mac Muga’, ‘Aje’, among others, revealed that Raila was a fan of his music and often expressed admiration for his artistry.
“Baba alikuwa anapenda sana wimbo wangu wa Mac Muga,” he added, recalling the fondness Raila had for the song.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2025, was one of Africa’s most influential political figures, celebrated for his relentless advocacy for democracy, good governance, and Pan-African unity.
His death has triggered a wave of tributes from global leaders, activists, and cultural icons.
In Tanzania, Raila was remembered not only as a political leader but also as a man who shared a deep historical bond with the country.
His late father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, maintained close ties with Tanzania’s founding president, Julius Nyerere, during the struggle for African liberation.
Raila’s himself was a close friend of the late Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli, who died in power on March 17, 2021, at the age of 61.
Alikiba’s tribute echoed that shared legacy of solidarity.
“We in Tanzania have always walked with Kenya in moments of pain and triumph,” he said.
“Baba’s spirit of unity and courage continues to inspire us all.”
Raila’s state funeral at Nyayo National Stadium drew regional and international dignitaries, underscoring his stature as a Pan-African statesman whose influence transcended politics — touching lives from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam and beyond.
