Ida Odinga Recalls SK Macharia’s Lifelong Support after Losing Her Job: “Thank You”

Media mogul SK Macharia’s recent visit to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo revealed a deep, decades-long bond between the Macharia and Odinga families, one rooted in trust, loyalty, and shared history dating back to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s time. During his tribute to the late Raila Odinga, SK reflected on a personal promise he once made to Jaramogi that has since defined his enduring relationship with the Odinga family.

How did SK Macharia and the Odinga family become close?

Speaking during his visit on Thursday, October 25, SK Macharia recounted his first encounter with Jaramogi and how it shaped their lifelong connection. “The last day Jaramogi left Nairobi for Bondo, Ida was present. I walked him through the stairs of Agip House. As I put him in the car, he said he would come back the following week for us to see former President Daniel Arap Moi. He told me he had two sons, Oburu and Raila, and since I am older than them, I should take care of them,” SK said.

The veteran media owner revealed that his close relationship with Raila and Oburu was not political but deeply personal. “Whenever you’ve been hearing rumours about a Kikuyu named SK supporting Raila through the different presidencies, it is because they are my brothers,” he explained.

Reflecting on Raila’s legacy, SK paid tribute to his lifelong friend: “He was a great man, just like his father. He has given this country what we don’t yet know; maybe history will tell us. We don’t know anyone who has given so much of their life to this country.”

How did SK Macharia support Ida Odinga?

Ida Odinga, the widow of Raila Odinga, also shared her gratitude for SK’s unwavering support through some of her most difficult moments. “The story of the Odingas and SK began in the early 1990s – he has been a friend of this family,” she said.

Recalling one of the most defining moments in her life, Ida revealed how SK reached out after she lost her job for the second time. “In 1992, when I was sacked for the second time, SK was the one who reached out to me first,” she said.

She went on to describe how she started working in Jaramogi’s office at Agip House soon after. “SK came and thought I was the secretary, but I acted like one in Jaramogi’s office. Since then, he has been with us through many journeys,” Ida added.

In a heartfelt message of appreciation, Ida concluded, “SK, I want to thank you very much for always being there for the Odinga family. May God bless you abundantly?”

The touching exchange between SK and Ida offered a glimpse into the unspoken friendship and loyalty that has endured across generations, a rare bond that continues to bridge both family and history.

By Risper Akinyi