Ali Kiba and Jose Chameleone Lead East African Artists in Mourning Raila Odinga

East African music legends Ali Kiba and Jose Chameleone have joined thousands of mourners across the continent in paying tribute to Kenya’s late former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80. Odinga died in Kochi, India, after collapsing during a morning walk while receiving medical treatment, leaving Kenya and Africa in deep mourning.

Ali Kiba shared an emotional message on social media, expressing sorrow and solidarity with the Odinga family. “I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of Raila Amolo Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya. On behalf of myself and all those who hold you in high regard, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this time of sorrow,” he wrote. The Tanzanian star described Odinga as a source of inspiration whose resilience and leadership had touched many lives across Africa.

Ugandan superstar Jose Chameleone also took to his social platforms to honour the late ODM leader, describing his passing as a loss to the entire continent. “Pole sana Ndugu zangu wa Kenya, familia yote ya Rt Hon. Raila Odinga. Kupoteza kwa Raila Amolo Odinga si tu hasara kwa familia na nchi yake, bali pia kwa bara zima la Afrika. Mungu ailaze roho yake mahali pema peponi,” he shared.

Chameleone’s tribute, which translates to a message of unity and prayer, captured the widespread grief and respect felt beyond Kenya’s borders. As the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most influential leaders, tributes like these from regional icons underscore Raila Odinga’s lasting impact on generations across East Africa.

By Risper Akinyi