Elders, governors gift Raila Odinga’s family over 100 bulls ahead of burial

In a series of deeply cultural and emotional tributes, leaders and elders from across Kenya presented more than 100 bulls to the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at his Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County.

The gestures symbolised respect, condolence, unity, and appreciation for Raila’s lifetime of service.

On Saturday, delegations led by elders and community leaders paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister, describing him as a peacemaker who united rival communities through peaceful coexistence and prosperity.

They arrived with the animals as a mark of honour and to contribute towards feeding thousands of mourners expected during Sunday’s burial ceremony.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led elders from the five Western counties in presenting the “Mulembe Bulls,” each representing a county. The gesture symbolised harmony and shared grief across the nation, with Mudavadi conducting the presentation in solemn dignity.

The Sakwa Clan, tracing their lineage to the Wanga Kingdom of Kakamega County, was represented by Governor Fernandes Barasa of Kakamega, who delivered 15 bulls to the late leader’s family as a mark of respect and solidarity.

"As the Wanga Kingdom, we are not only mourning a Pan-African icon but also one of our own. Together with King Nabongo Shitawa II, we have delivered a humble contribution of 15 bulls to the home of Raila in Bondo, as a mark of respect and solidarity," said Barasa.

Others who brought the gifts were Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, who each presented bulls to the family in a show of solidarity and respect for the late leader’s legacy.

“The Odinga family and Luo community at large did the same when we lost my father...this is a sign of everlasting friendship between the two communities,” said Wamalwa.

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma led yet another team from his county in presenting several bulls at the Opoda Farm.

Kalenjin leaders and elders contributed 80 bulls, a gesture deeply rooted in their tradition. The delegation, led by governors Stephen Sang (Nandi), Wisley Rotich (Elgeyo Marakwet), and Benjamin Cheboi (Baringo), was received by Mama Ida Odinga, Oburu Odinga, and other family members.

Governor Rotich explained that the 80 bulls symbolised Raila’s 80 years of life and, in Hebrew tradition, the divine spark of God within the soul.

“The 80 bulls signify the 80 years Baba lived in this world. In Hebrew, the number 80 also represents the divine spark of God within the soul,” said Governor Rotich.

The gesture, deeply rooted in Kalenjin tradition, symbolised not only mourning but also brotherhood and enduring friendship between the Kalenjin and Luo communities.

“This visit is both cultural and emotional,” said Tinderet MP Julius Melly, who chairs the Kalenjin MPs caucus.

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• governors gift Raila Odinga’s family over 100 bulls ahead of burial

“We have come with a lot of sadness because we have lost a great leader who helped unite the country. Raila worked well with Presidents Moi, Kibaki, Uhuru, and most recently, with President William Ruto. His life was defined by service, resilience, and unity.”