Raila's Sister Beryl Achieng Dies in Nairobi

Beryl Achieng Odinga, the youngest member of Kenya’s prominent Odinga family, has died in Nairobi.

Family members confirmed that she passed away at Nairobi West Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment for a prolonged illness. She had previously sought medical care abroad, including at the same facility in India where her brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, had been treated. 

Ruth Odinga, her sister and former Kisumu Deputy Governor, announced the death, describing Beryl as a devoted mother and a central figure within the family. Born to the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice-President, and Mary Ajuma Oginga, Beryl grew up in a politically influential household. 

Unlike her siblings, Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila Odinga, and Ruth Odinga, she largely remained out of the political spotlight. She pursued a career in public administration, including a historic appointment as the first Black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe, and later serving as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company in 2020. 

Beryl is survived by her children, Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taure, and her siblings-in-law Dr Anne Oburu, Dr Canon Ida Odinga, Hon Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu. Ruth Odinga said the family takes comfort in their faith and in the time they shared with her.