Trans Nzoia Governor Natembeya donates 15 bulls and 15 bags of maize for Raila Odinga’s burial ceremony

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has donated 15 bulls and 15 bags of maize to the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as part of the preparations for his burial ceremony in Bondo, Siaya County.

Natembeya described the donation as a “humble token” of his deep appreciation for Raila’s monumental contribution to Kenya’s democracy, justice, and unity.

“As a political father, Raila nurtured leaders across generations and strengthened the bond between the Mulembe and Nyanza regions—a unity that remains central to our nation’s political and social harmony,” said Natembeya.

He pledged to carry forward the late leader’s vision of a united and just Kenya, promising to work closely with like-minded leaders to advance Raila’s dream for the country.

The gesture came shortly after Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also sent a gift of bulls to the Odinga homestead, symbolising the solidarity of the Luhya community with their Luo counterparts during this period of national mourning.

On Saturday morning, a delegation of elders from Western Kenya arrived in Bondo, bearing the livestock and offering condolences on behalf of Mudavadi. Clad in traditional regalia, they described the offering as a cultural and spiritual gesture of respect for Raila’s lifelong dedication to public service.

“If you put ugali without greens, it burns you. So we saw it fit to bring greens here. We brought cows and other items to honour the family,” said one elder, invoking a proverb that underscored the depth of the gesture.

For the Luhya community, sending livestock carries a powerful symbolic meaning representing respect, unity, and shared grief.

The Odinga family, who continue to receive a steady flow of mourners and dignitaries, acknowledged the gesture as a moving expression of national togetherness during one of Kenya’s most somber moments.

Raila Odinga, 80, passed away on October 15 while receiving treatment in India. He will be laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo on Sunday, October 19.