KITUI, Kenya — A group of young performers brought Ithookwe Stadium to an emotional standstill on Monday, October 20, with a powerful tribute to the former Prime Minister, the late Raila Amolo Odinga during the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County.
The children, dressed in vibrant national colours, recited a heartfelt Swahili poem that honoured Raila’s lifelong pursuit of peace, unity, and justice — themes that have defined his decades-long political journey.
“Our father, sleep well. Sleep well our hero. Our light. You fought for peace and togetherness. You lit the fire of goodness and kindness. Your voice is silent, but your soul lives forever,” the young voices recited, drawing applause and tears from the thousands gathered.
The performance underscored Raila’s enduring legacy as a unifier who bridged ethnic and political divides, promoting harmony in a country often marred by division.
“You loved everyone equally without discriminating. You brought together tribes. Goodbye our hero. And thank you,” the children continued, their synchronized voices echoing across the stadium.
In a visually stunning moment, the performers formed the words “SHUJAA RAILA” — Hero Raila — on the field, symbolizing the national respect and affection the late leader continues to command even in death.
The tribute was among the most moving moments of this year’s Mashujaa Day, held just one day after Raila’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County.
The celebrations, presided over by President William Ruto, featured Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the chief guest.
The national ceremony honoured 184 individuals for their contributions to Kenya’s development, including Citizen TV’s Mwanahamisi Hamadi, music producer Clemo, artist Jua Cali, and literary icon Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o.
By sunrise, Ithookwe Stadium was filled, with thousands streaming in from across Kitui and beyond. The day’s theme — celebrating Kenya’s heroes — found its most poignant expression in the tribute to Raila Odinga, whose life’s work embodied the spirit of national service and sacrifice.
As the young performers exited the field to thunderous applause, one line from their poem lingered in the air — “Your voice is silent, but your soul lives forever.”
