Beryl Achieng Odinga, Sister of Raila Odinga, Dies Suddenly
Beryl, who led a relatively private life, was a cherished member of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families
The Odinga family has announced the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga, daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga
Beryl, who led a relatively private life, was a cherished member of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families
In a statement on Facebook, the family described Beryl as a devoted mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai
She was also a sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa, and sister-in-law to Dr. Anne Oburu, Dr. Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu
“It is with a heavy heart, but in acceptance of the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga
While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms
We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her,” the family said
Beryl’s passing has left an “immense void,” the family added, emphasizing their gratitude for her life and the positive influence she had on those around her
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Although she avoided the public spotlight, Beryl was a distinguished professional. She completed her Form Six (‘A’ Levels) in December 1972 and pursued dual careers as a teacher and lawyer
She made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city. Later, she served as Company Secretary of the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe.
Back in Kenya, she continued her public service as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), having been formally appointed to the board in January 2020
She was also known for her remarkable educational and social connections; in 2023, she revealed that she had been a classmate of former Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.
Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974, who later died of a heart attack in 1985 while at Kodiaga Prison
Her family, friends, and colleagues remember her for her devotion, professionalism, and the lasting impact she had on everyone she met
Writer : Mweru Mbugua
