Kenyan Arsenal fans mourn Raila Odinga: He died before the dream
By Paulette Mboga, October 15, 2025Kenyans are still reflecting on the life of Raila Odinga, a man who was not only a towering political figure but also one of Arsenal’s most loyal supporters.
His death has left a deep sense of sadness among Kenyan football lovers, especially those who shared his unwavering support for the North London club.
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Raila Odinga was a known Arsenal diehard who never shied away from showing his love for the team. Over the years, he was often seen dressed in full Arsenal gear — from the jersey and scarf to the cap — and even travelled abroad to watch the club play.
His passion for the team was well known across the country, inspiring many other Kenyans to support Arsenal as well.
Raila’s love for Arsenal and football
Raila’s love for football went beyond the English Premier League. Locally, he was a strong supporter of Gor Mahia, one of Kenya’s most popular football clubs.
For Raila, football was not just a game but a way of life.
He often used football metaphors in his speeches and enjoyed engaging in discussions about both local and international matches.
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Despite Arsenal’s long wait for a UEFA Champions League trophy, Raila’s faith in the team never faded. His passing comes before seeing the club win the title — a dream that many fans say he carried for decades.
“Raila Odinga rests after waiting 80 years for Arsenal to win UCL,” one X user wrote. Another posted, “Deeply saddened to share that Raila Amolo Odinga, former Prime Minister and icon of Kenya and one of Arsenal’s most devoted supporters, has passed away. His passion for Arsenal inspired millions across Kenya and Africa. The club needs to honour his memory.”
Even among Kenyan Arsenal supporters, his loss has been described as personal. “Arsenal tumepoteza shabiki mwenzetu. Rip Raila,” another message read.
Raila’s son, Raila Junior, has also been known for his love for Arsenal, often sharing football banter online in support of the club. Together, the two symbolised the strong football culture that runs through many Kenyan families.
As Kenya mourns Raila Odinga, his memory will live on not just as a political icon but also as a passionate football fan who believed in the beauty of the game — and never stopped hoping that Arsenal would one day lift the Champions League trophy.