NAIROBI, Kenya — Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has sent a message of condolence to the Odinga family following the death of Beryl Achieng Odinga, describing her as a pioneering professional whose leadership left an enduring mark in Kenya and Zimbabwe.
Musyoka said he received the news of Beryl’s passing with “great sadness,” noting her distinguished legacy as both a public servant and a reform-driven urban planner.
“Beryl was the daughter of the late Hon. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga, and the devoted mother of Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai,” he said. “Her loss is deeply felt by a family that has given so much to our nation.”
Musyoka recalled his time with Beryl at the University of Nairobi, where both studied law, praising her “calm confidence, humility, and strong sense of purpose” — qualities he said guided her throughout her life and career.
Beryl’s professional journey broke barriers across borders. She became the first Black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city, shortly after independence, a role that Musyoka said showcased her “competence as an exceptional urban planner” and her dedication to improving service delivery for ordinary citizens.
Upon returning to Kenya, Beryl continued her public service leadership, serving as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company from 2020. Her tenure coincided with intense public scrutiny over water shortages and infrastructure inefficiencies, and Musyoka credited her with offering “firm and committed leadership.”
“At this difficult time, my family and the Wiper Patriotic Front stand with the entire Odinga family,” Musyoka said, adding that he had spoken directly to Senator Oburu Oginga to convey his condolences. “May the Almighty grant you strength and peace, and may Beryl’s memory continue to bless all who knew her.”
Beryl, a younger sister of former Prime Minister, the late Raila Odinga, died while receiving treatment in Nairobi, according to the family.
