Raila Odinga’s Sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, Dies Suddenly After a Life of Quiet Influence

The Odinga family is mourning the sudden death of Beryl Achieng Odinga. She was the daughter of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Her passing has shocked many because she lived a quiet life despite her famous family. The announcement came through a brief but emotional Facebook message.

The family described Beryl as a devoted mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai. She was a supportive sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa. They said they accept God’s will even as they struggle with the pain of her loss. They thanked God for the years they spent with her. They also praised her calm spirit, warm heart and strong influence. They said her death leaves a deep emptiness in their lives.

Beryl lived a simple but extraordinary life. She finished her Form Six studies in 1972. She later studied teaching and law. Her determination pushed her into a historic role in Zimbabwe. She became the first black Town Clerk of Mutare. She worked hard, rose steadily and earned respect. When she returned to Zimbabwe as a resident, she rebuilt her career. She later served as Company Secretary at the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe.

She later returned to Kenya. She continued serving the public. In 2020, she joined the board of Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company. She eventually became its chairperson. Her leadership style was firm but considerate. She gained recognition in both public and corporate spaces. She also had strong academic links. In 2023, during Oburu Oginga’s birthday, she shared that she had been classmates with Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o. Many found this surprising.

Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974. He was an ambitious politician. He died in 1985 after suffering a heart attack at Kodiaga Prison. Despite her personal challenges, Beryl stayed resilient. She focused on service and family. Her death now closes the chapter of a calm, steady and influential life.