Immortalising Baba! Raila Odinga’s sculpture unveiled
By Valerian Khakayi, July 9, 2026Kenyan sculptors Mandela Cleophas Ondula and Cheryl Nagawa have unveiled a striking sculpture in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, celebrating his contribution to Kenya’s democratic journey.
The artwork, titled “The Enigma“, was unveiled on Saba Saba Day, with the artists describing it as a tribute not only to Raila’s likeness but also to the ideals and movement he has come to represent over the years.
Sharing images of the sculpture on social media, the artists said the unveiling was deliberately timed to coincide with Saba Saba, a day that holds historical significance in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy.
“The Enigma, Carved. There is no day more fitting than Saba Saba to unveil a tribute to the man who became the bedrock of our democratic struggle. Today, we don’t just reveal a sculpture; we honour decades of resilience, sacrifice, and an unyielding love for Kenya,” Mandela wrote.
According to the sculptor, The Enigma represents more than a physical resemblance to the late veteran opposition leader.
“This piece, titled ‘The Enigma’, captures more than just a likeness; it captures the spirit of a movement. Formed through fire, sweat, and dedication, it stands as a monument to a legacy that shaped a nation,” he added.
Additionally, Mandela further described the late PM as a towering figure in Kenya’s history whose legacy will endure through art.
“Baba, Agwambo, The Enigma. A force of history, immortalised in art,” he wrote.
Photos shared online show the sculpture depicting Raila in a thoughtful pose, with detailed features reflecting his distinctive appearance and public persona.
Raila’s statue
Mandela’s and Nagawa’s artworks come months after the former Parklands Highridge Member of County Assembly (MCA) Jayendra Malde and the Indian community at large shared a plan to erect a statue of the late Raila in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), seeking to honour his lifelong contribution to democracy, unity, and good governance in Kenya.
On Monday, October 27, 2025, a formal letter requesting approval was delivered to both President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, outlining the proposal and requesting guidance on the next steps.
“Today, October 27, 2025, as promised, we have submitted the letters of approval to President William Ruto and the Governor of Nairobi, Sakaja Johnson,” Malde wrote.
“We will wait for their approval, and once approved, we will move with speed to get it done.”