Who is the widow of Zimbabwe’s ex-PM Morgan Tsvangirai who stood by Ida in Raila’s burial?
By Nancy Marende, October 21, 2025During Raila Odinga’s burial, Elizabeth Macheka, who is the widow of the late Morgan Tsvangirai, the former Prime Minister and opposition leader of Zimbabwe, attracted attention.
Mama Ida Odinga, Raila Odinga’s widow, announced her arrival in the country on October 18, 2025, acknowledging their families’ strong personal and political bond.
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“With me is Mrs Tsvangirai, Her Excellency Elizabeth Macheka Tsvangirai. She has arrived from Zimbabwe to mourn with me,” she said.
She attended the burial of her husband’s long-time ally and friend, former Kenyan Premier Raila Odinga, in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Taking it to her social media on Monday, October 20, 2025, Macheka stated that she understands Mama Ida’s pain and recounted how she and her late husband stood by her when she lost her husband.
“Yesterday, I had the honour of witnessing the burial of a hero, a true patriot and servant of the people. I was deeply grateful to stand with my dear sister, Mama Ida Odinga, during this solemn moment,” she said.
“As a widow, I understand the depth of her pain. Mama Ida and her late husband stood by me in my time of sorrow, and it was both a privilege and an expression of sisterhood to stand with her and the people of Kenya in love, prayer, and solidarity. Pumzika kwa amani, Baba. Pole Kenya, Mungu awafariji,” she added.
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Who is Elizabeth Macheka?
Elizabeth Macheka was born in 1976 and is the daughter of Joseph Macheka, a former mayor of Chitungwiza and veteran politician from Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU-PF.
However, limited public information exists about her formal education background, including her schooling details.
Elizabeth Macheka’s marriage
She came into the public spotlight more prominently after marrying Morgan Tsvangirai in 2012 through a customary marriage ceremony. Before her marriage to Tsvangirai, Elizabeth had three daughters from a previous marriage.
Despite her family’s political ties, she maintained loyalty to her late husband throughout his illness and death.
Work
Elizabeth has been a prominent figure because of her marriage to Tsvangirai and her work as a philanthropist and businesswoman.
She is the founder and CEO of Africa Royal Group Zimbabwe, a company focused on property development and investment.
Social life
Elizabeth often uses her platform to share messages of hope, strength, and resilience, reflecting her journey of overcoming personal and public challenges since Morgan Tsvangirai’s death.
She has publicly expressed condolences and support to families enduring loss and continues to honour her late husband’s legacy.