Raila Odinga’s Sister Beryl Achieng Odinga Passes Away
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s younger sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, has died, marking a deeply painful moment for the Odinga family.
The news was announced by Raila’s other sister, Ruth Odinga, who revealed that Beryl passed away on Tuesday, November 25. Ruth did not share the exact cause of death, but her voice in the statement reflected the heavy grief the family is experiencing.
While confirming the sad news, Ruth explained that Beryl was the daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and his first wife, Mary Auma. This makes her a biological sister to Raila Odinga and his elder brother, Dr. Oburu Oginga.
In her emotional condolence message, the Kisumu County Woman Representative remembered Beryl as someone who played an important and meaningful role in her life.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. Daughter of the Late Jaramogi Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Mother to Ami Auma, Chizi and Taurus,” Ruth noted.
She went on to express deep sorrow but also gratitude for the time the family had with Beryl.
“Even though her loss has left a huge emptiness in our hearts, we believe she rests safely in the Lord’s arms. We remain thankful for the precious moments we shared with her,” she added.
Although the details could not be independently confirmed at the time of writing, reports indicate that Beryl died at a Nairobi hospital after a long struggle with an undisclosed illness. Sources close to the family said she had been in and out of hospital for months before finally succumbing on Tuesday.
Beryl lived a very private life despite coming from one of Kenya’s most prominent political families. However, those close to her describe her as a highly accomplished and principled woman.
She built a strong career in education, working as a professional teacher, while also qualifying as a lawyer. Interestingly, she was the only member of the Odinga family who completed their schooling entirely in Kenya, a detail that set her apart from her siblings.
Beyond the classroom, Beryl also served in leadership roles. She once held the position of Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewage Company (NWSCO), where she contributed to key reforms and oversight responsibilities.
In her personal life, Beryl married Otieno Abala, a well-known real estate entrepreneur, in 1974. The two later separated due to reported marital disagreements, and it remains unclear whether she remarried afterward.
Her death comes just six weeks after the passing of Raila Odinga, who died on October 15, 2025, in India, plunging the family into yet another period of mourning.
Beryl Achieng Odinga will be remembered not only as a member of Kenya’s iconic political family but also as a committed educationist, a leader, and a mother whose humble nature left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
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