The late Raila Odinga’s ancestral home in Bondo has turned into a centre of national homage as delegations from across the country continue to present symbolic animal and grain offerings to the Odinga family. Over the past two days, Western Kenya leaders have led emotional cultural tributes featuring the presentation of bulls, cattle and maize — gestures steeped in respect, solidarity and tradition.
From Busia, a delegation led by Governor Paul Otuoma arrived at Opoda Farm carrying six bulls, each representing one of the Western region’s counties — Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia and part of Nandi. The leaders said their offering symbolised collective gratitude and brotherhood with the Luo community during this period of mourning. “Each bull carries the spirit of our counties and the unity that Baba inspired across Kenya,” one elder said during the presentation.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya followed with one of the largest single tributes — 15 bulls and 15 bags of maize, handed over personally at the Odinga homestead. Natembeya described the donation as “a humble token to a man whose courage and sacrifice helped shape Kenya’s democracy,” adding that Raila’s vision for justice and equality resonated far beyond his political base in Nyanza.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s representatives also visited Bondo, presenting bulls and other livestock on behalf of the Mulembe nation. The gesture was viewed as both cultural and political, reaffirming the deep ties between Raila and leaders from Western Kenya.
Earlier in the week, a separate delegation of Kalenjin elders and MPs from the Rift Valley pledged 80 bulls, one for each year of Raila’s life. Their symbolic offering underscored his status as a national figure whose influence transcended ethnic and regional boundaries.
The sight of animals being driven into Opoda Farm — accompanied by song, drums and traditional blessings — has brought together political leaders, cultural elders and ordinary citizens in a shared moment of remembrance. For many, these gestures are not mere rituals but expressions of Kenya’s collective gratitude to a man remembered as a fighter, reformer and unifier.
