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Najib Balala condoles with Odinga family following Beryl Achieng’s passing
27th November, 2025 01:14 AM
Former Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has expressed his condolences to the Odinga family following the passing of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, the younger sister of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.
In a heartfelt message shared via his official X account in the wee hours of Thursday, November 27, 2025, Balala extended his sympathies to family and friends, praying that the Almighty grants them courage, comfort, and peace during this difficult period.
“Saddened by the passing of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, sister to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends. May the Almighty God grant them courage, comfort, and peace during this difficult time,” Balala stated.
Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mary Auma, had largely maintained a low profile despite growing up in one of Kenya’s most prominent political families.
She was known for her contributions to education and public service, having served as a professional teacher and holding senior positions, including Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company.
Her passing has been mourned by family, friends, and political leaders across the country, reflecting her quiet yet meaningful impact on Kenya’s civic and social landscape.
The Odinga family continues to receive condolences from across the political spectrum, highlighting the late Beryl Achieng’ Odinga’s influence and the legacy of service within the Odinga family.
Achieng’s death
Achieng’s death comes just weeks after the family buried the former prime minister, who died on October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India.
She died at the age of 78 while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital. The news of her death went public after her sister, Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, announced it on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.
Ruth, in her statement, said the family was deeply shaken by the sudden loss but accepted the will of God, adding that Achieng was a daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga and a mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai.
She also listed her surviving siblings, including Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Raila Odinga, and Dr Wenwa Akinyi, as well as several in-laws who had been close to Beryl.
“It is with a heavy heart, but accepting the will of God, we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. Daughter to the late Hon. Jaramogi Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga,” she posted.
“Mother to Ami Auma, Chizi and Taurai, sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, Rt Hon Raila Odinga, Akinyi Wenwa, amongst others. Sister-in-law to Dr Anne Oburu, Dr Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu.”
“While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms and are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”
