The late Raila Odinga was honoured through a moving display of performances during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui on Monday.
The tributes, filled with symbolism and emotion, stood out as a powerful reminder of his place in Kenya’s political journey.
Though the day was set aside to honour national heroes, much of the spotlight turned to Raila, whose recent passing had left the country mourning.
The tributes began with a large group of school children dressed in white, stepping onto the field in perfect synchrony.
Their performance immediately captured the attention of the crowd.
As they moved in formation, they shaped the word “Shujaa” across the stadium grounds, setting the tone for what was to come.
The act quickly shifted into a direct salute to Raila. Wearing white gloves and waving white handkerchiefs, the children moved rhythmically to form the name “Raila” in full view of spectators.
Applause broke out as drone footage showed the message from above, with giant screens projecting the image of “Shujaa Raila” for all to see. The tribute continued with a chanted farewell as the children sang, “Raila wetu lala salama,” sending a heartfelt message across the packed stadium. For a moment, silence fell, and the words echoed through the venue with deep emotion.
They then delivered a Swahili shairi in his honour. The lines reflected on Raila’s struggle for justice, the years he spent in detention, and his unshaken belief in democracy. The poem touched on his leadership, his sacrifices, and the vision he held for a better Kenya.
A quieter but equally emotional moment followed, as the song “Jamaica Farewell” by Harry Belafonte played on the big screens. A video montage showed earlier clips of Raila singing the ballad himself. The atmosphere grew heavy with nostalgia as the tune filled the stadium.
Country singer Kepha Oyugi Bwonda, also known as Pharry-K Cowboy045 from Kisii, added his voice to the tribute by performing his own version of the song. The melody, already tied to Raila’s memory, carried through the crowd with raw emotion.
These tributes came just a day after Raila’s burial in Bondo.
While Mashujaa Day has always been a moment to recognise Kenya’s heroes, this year’s observance was closely tied to his passing.
Songs, performances, and poetry were dedicated to him throughout the day.
From the field to the stage, through dance, song, and spoken word, the message was clear—Raila Odinga was more than a politician. He was remembered as a true hero whose impact on Kenya will not be forgotten.
