Kenyan President William Ruto has paid tribute to Beryl Achieng Odinga, a sister of late former prime minister Raila Amollo Odinga, following her death in Nairobi yesterday.
The news of her death was announced by her sister, Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga. In his message of condolence, President Ruto celebrated Beryl’s legacy and professional achievements across the continent.
‘The late Beryl Achieng Odinga was a trailblaser, whose distinguished professional journey took her across the African continent, from Kenya to Zimbabwe,’ he said. President Ruto said Achieng made her mark as urban planner in Zimbabwe in the 1980s, ‘where her expertise and commitment contributed to transformative urban development.’
Key role
He also hailed her contribution as the chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company from 2020, where he said she championed and strengthened the institution and improved service delivery. ‘We mourn the loss of a great intellectual and a pioneering woman who opened doors and lit the path for many career women,’ Mr Ruto said.
‘On my own behalf and that of all Kenyans, I convey heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga on Beryl’s passing. May God’s grace, comfort, and compassion be with you during this difficult time,’ he added. Ms Ruth Odinga, in her statement, said the family had accepted the will of God even as they struggled with the sudden loss.
She identified Achieng as a daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga, and a mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai. Ms Odinga also listed Achieng’ss surviving siblings, including Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Raila Odinga, and Dr Wenwa Akinyi, as well as several in-laws who remained close to her.
‘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 with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her,’ she said. Achieng’s death comes only weeks after the Odinga family buried Raila Odinga, who died on October 15, in Kochi, India, a loss that prompted nationwide mourning, a week of national reflection, and a state funeral attended by leaders and dignitaries.
He was laid to rest on October 19 at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Siaya County. Though born into one of Kenya’s most politically influential families, Achieng Odinga spent much of her life away from the spotlight that followed the Odinga name. While figures such as Oburu, Raila, and Ruth were prominent in national politics, Beryl chose a quieter and more private path, building a solid professional career that earned her deep respect. Among her notable achievements was her groundbreaking role in Zimbabwe, where she became the first Black Town Clerk of Mutare, the country’s third-largest city, a historic appointment that positioned her among the distinguished professionals of her era.
She later returned to Kenya and continued to serve in various leadership capacities. In 2020, she was appointed chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), taking the helm at a time when the institution faced intense public scrutiny over water shortages and operational gaps. Working closely with the board and county officials, she helped stabilise the system and strengthen accountability.