The Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat has eulogised the late Raila Odinga as a transformational leader and a true statesman of unmatched stature.
The late Prime Minister died at the age of 80 on Wednesday in India where he was receiving treatment.
In a statement, the Secretariat’s Director General Kenneth Mwige noted that Odinga’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and an enduring commitment to nationhood adding he was a reformer of deep resolve, and a visionary.
“As Kenya continues on the path of Vision 2030, it does so on foundations that Raila Odinga helped build with courage, clarity, and conviction. His legacy is not only written in our Constitution, infrastructure, and institutions, but also in the hearts of millions who drew hope and strength from his example.” The statement read.
Adding that: “He was, and remains, one of Kenya’s greatest sons; a statesman of unmatched stature, a reformer of deep resolve, and a visionary who dared to dream of a better Kenya; one that works for all.”
The tribute highlighted Odinga’s role in the struggle for multiparty democracy, shaping modern Kenya’s infrastructure and energy sectors , the foundational influence on Kenya Vision 2030 and constitutional reforms, leadership as Prime Minister (2008–2013) and major projects like Thika Superhighway and SGR groundwork as well as advocacy for devolution, digital transformation, and national unity.
“His tenure as Minister for Energy (2001 –2002) saw significant liberalization of the sector and foundational steps toward rural electrification; a critical development enabler.” The DG noted.
“As Minister for Roads, Public Works, and Housing in 2003, Raila oversaw critical upgrades to Kenya’s road infrastructure, setting the stage for projects that would later become central to Vision 2030.”
According to Mwige, Odinga was a staunch advocate for justice and inclusion, noting that he was instrumental in the passage of the 2010 Constitution, which introduced devolution; a key political pillar of Vision 2030.
The DG hailed Odinga for his commitment to national unity citing the year 2018, when he chose peace over politics through the historic Handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“This act of statesmanship led to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), aimed at solving deep-rooted issues around inclusion, governance, and national cohesion; core ideals embedded in Vision 2030.” Mwige said.
The late Odinga will be buried on Sunday at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where final burial preparations are underway.
