The Odinga family is in mourning following the death of Beryl Achieng Odinga, the younger sister of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The announcement was made on Tuesday, November 25, by Raila’s elder sister, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga.
In a brief statement, Ruth revealed that Beryl, the daughter of Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and his first wife, Mary Auma, passed away earlier in the day. She did not disclose the cause of death.
“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 said.
“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 and are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share,” she added.
Prolonged Illness
Although the family has yet to issue an official medical report, sources close to them indicated that Beryl had been battling illness for an extended period. She is reported to have been in and out of a Nairobi hospital, where she ultimately succumbed. The information could not be independently verified at the time of publication.
A Quiet Life in a Prominent Family
Despite being a member of Kenya’s most recognisable political family, Beryl largely maintained a low profile throughout her life. She was an educationist by training—a professional teacher—and also qualified as a lawyer.
She is remembered as the only member of the wider Odinga family who pursued all her education in Kenya.
Beyond her academic credentials, Beryl held various leadership positions in public service, including serving as the Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewage Company.
Family and Personal Life
In 1974, Beryl married Otieno Abala, a prominent real estate developer. The couple later separated under unclear circumstances, with no public information indicating whether she remarried.
Beryl leaves behind her three children—Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurus—and a grieving extended family.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in the coming days.
