Raila may be gone but his legacy lives on: Ida Odinga celebrates 76th birthday

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- Ida Odinga turned 76 at a private gathering held at the family's Karen residence, marked by an intimate décor of dark green, gold and black

- The birthday was Ida's first since the death of her husband Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in India

- Ohangla singer Prince Indah performed at the celebration, and politicians including Gladys Wanga stepped in to dance with Ida on the emotional occasion

Ida Odinga rang in her 76th birthday surrounded by close friends and family at the Odinga family's Karen home, in what was a quietly emotional milestone — her first birthday without her husband, the late veteran politician Raila Odinga by her side.

The gathering was intimate, with a tasteful setup featuring dark green and gold accents against a black theme. Videos from the celebration made their rounds online, showing guests delivering warm, heartfelt speeches in honour of the birthday celebrant.

**Prince Indah Serenades Ida Odinga**

One of the highlights of the evening was a live performance by Ohangla sensation Prince Indah, who serenaded those in attendance with his music, lifting the spirits of the room.

The occasion carried a particular weight this year. In previous birthdays, Raila was always by Ida's side, and the couple would share a dance to mark the day. This time, that familiar moment was absent. Politicians, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, stepped up to dance with Ida, filling the room with warmth and ensuring the celebration felt as joyful as possible despite the circumstances.

Raila Odinga died on 15 October 2025 while in India, where he had gone to receive medical treatment. Since his passing, the Odinga family has found several ways to keep his memory alive and honour his legacy publicly.

**Kenyans Rally Around Ida Online**

The videos from the birthday celebration moved many Kenyans, who took to social media in large numbers to send their love and condolences to Mama Ida. Their messages were a blend of celebration, comfort and solidarity:

"Happy birthday Mama Ida. May God continue giving you strength. Raila may be gone but his legacy lives on."

"Mama Ida, tunakutakia birthday njema. Mungu akuwezeshe na akupe nguvu kila siku."

"Happy birthday Mama Ida. We celebrate you today and always. May you continue to find comfort in the love of your family."

"76 years of grace. Happy birthday Mama Ida. Mungu akulinde na akupe maisha marefu."

"We miss Baba Raila, but today we celebrate Mama Ida. Happy birthday to a strong woman."

"Mama Ida, pole kwa kipindi hiki. Tunajua si rahisi bila Baba, but may God give you strength."

"Happy birthday Mama Ida. Raila alikupenda sana, na leo Wakenya wako pamoja nawe."

"May this new chapter bring you peace, joy and strength. Happy birthday Mama Ida."

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.