Kisumu County came alive in rhythm and reverence as a visiting German troupe turned Raila Odinga’s resting place in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Bondo, into a stage of sound, light and history.
In a stirring performance blending music, poetry and choreography, the Germans celebrated the life of the man many call “the father of modern Kenya.” Their presentation, a fusion of European orchestral tones and Luo traditional rhythm, symbolized global respect for the fallen statesman.
“It was like watching cultures embrace in silence and song,” said Winston Ouko, a Bondo resident who attended the ceremony. “They showed us that a king is not only celebrated in life, but also remembered in glory.”
From the sacred hills of Bondo, the procession moved to Kisumu City, where the German delegation joined county officials and cultural groups in launching the German Space at the Kisumu National Library, a new centre for language learning, cultural exchange and digital innovation.
“This is how we honor Raila Odinga,” said Beatrice Odongo, Kisumu’s Executive Member for Sports, Gender and Culture. “He went abroad to seek empowerment for Kenyans. Now, we bring that empowerment to our youth.”
Eng. Bovince Ochieng, the county’s Chief Officer for Education, urged parents to take advantage of the facility during the holidays. “The library now offers more than books, it offers a future,” he said, adding that the county plans to equip it with digital and AI resources to align youth with global opportunities.
Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o hailed the moment as a bridge between legacy and learning. “Raila was not just a Kenyan leader, he was a global voice,” he said. “This partnership ensures his influence continues to shape generations long after his passing.”
As dusk settled over the lakeside, the German troupe’s melodies echoed from Bondo to Kisumu in a journey of rhythm, remembrance and renewal. The enigma rests, but his story still moves, carried by music, culture and the enduring bond between Kenya and Germany.
By James Okoth
