Beryl Achieng Odinga’s Legacy Remembered After Her Sudden Passing

The Odinga family has confirmed the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga, daughter of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Her quiet lifestyle often kept her outside the public eye, yet she remained an admired figure within one of Kenya’s most influential political families. The family described her as a devoted mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai, and a sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa. She was also 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 noted that her loss leaves an “immense void” and expressed gratitude for the positive influence she carried throughout her life.

What Defined Beryl Achieng Odinga’s Professional Path?

Although she maintained a low profile, Beryl built an accomplished and far-reaching career. She completed her Form Six studies in 1972 before advancing into dual professions as a teacher and a lawyer. Her leadership journey took her beyond Kenya, where she made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city. After returning to Zimbabwe as a bona fide resident, she rebuilt her career and later became the Company Secretary of the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe.

Her commitment to public service continued in Kenya. She served as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company after her appointment to the board in January 2020. Her contributions extended into educational and social spaces as well, and during Oburu Oginga’s birthday celebration in October 2023, she shared that she had been a classmate of Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.

Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974, an aspiring legislator whose life was cut short in 1985. Despite personal challenges, she continued to pursue her career and family responsibilities with determination. Her life reflected resilience, service, and a strong dedication to those around her.

By Lucky Anyanje