The air in South Sakwa was thick with emotion on Thursday as hundreds of mourners — county staff, relatives, friends, political leaders and community elders — gathered to bid a solemn farewell to the late Jaduong’ Dennis Ambrose Achieng, widely known as Achieng Rajwayi, Achieng Rwath, Rabala, and to many, Nyakusa.
The send-off drew an especially huge turnout in support of his son, Chrispine Omondi, popularly known across Luo Nyanza airwaves as Chris Pilot — the celebrated former Ramogi FM vernacular radio presenter who now serves as the Director, Directorate of Public Communication, Siaya County Government.
The outpouring of solidarity was overwhelming. County officials, colleagues, villagers and long-time friends thronged the homestead, paying homage to a man whose life story reads like a chronicle of service, grit and unshakeable devotion to community.
Born in 1952, Ambrose’s early life was built on a foundation of discipline and curiosity. He began his education at Orengo Primary School before proceeding to the prestigious Maranda School, where he undertook the Cambridge School Certificate.
In 1972, his quest for self-upliftment led him to pursue mechanical studies, later securing employment in Mombasa. Yet despite the promise of city life, his heart never strayed far from the soils of South Sakwa — the community he deeply loved and eventually returned to serve.
Ambrose’s political journey began in 1976 as a party delegate and polling station coordinator during Kenya’s formative political years. His involvement was driven not by personal ambition, but by a conviction that grassroots representation mattered.
In 1983, he offered himself for elective leadership, vying for South Sakwa councillor. The spirited race — one still remembered for its intensity — featured notable contenders including Ambere Mayaka, Otayo Owiti, Ogogo Torch, Ochieng Od Wadu, Esther Saa Asaya and Ogowa Kifungu. Though he finished second, the campaign earned him another moniker: Achieng Daraja.
The loss never dampened his spirit. He continued serving his community with humility, becoming a mentor, mobilizer and stabilizing pillar during the turbulent one-party era.
Beyond politics, Ambrose’s legacy thrives in the family he built — a sprawling, vibrant lineage anchored in unity and tradition.
He was a devoted husband to four wives:
Rose Aoko Rajwayi (Arosy Nyakolando)
Mary Akinyi Rajwayi (Nyagem Kaudha)
Roseline Awino (Nyayenga)
Caroline Akelo (Nyayimbo)
Together, they nurtured a home abundant with love and continuity.
He was a proud father to:
George Gregory Omolo (Nairobi Cover Craft)
Thadius Rajwayi (Former Speaker – Mombasa County Assembly)
Chrispine Omondi Achieng (Chris Pilot) – Former Ramogi FM presenter and current Siaya County Director of Public Communication
Afline Atieno – Businesswoman, Luanda K’Otieno
His extended family includes Milton Rajwayi, Jecinter Achieng, Rosemary Aoko, Prisca Auma, Wilfred Ouma, Jeremiah Otieno, Quinter Adhiambo, Lucas Owuor, Daniel Odek, Millicent Adongo and Christine Afline.
His joy echoed through his grandchildren: Jollene Zillah Omondi, Felix Omondi, Joseph Otieno, Aldrige Otieno, Alvine Okinyi, Ronny Odiwuor, Dave Elton, Afline Hawi, Precious Joy and Michael Omondi.
Through them, his light will keep shining.
The burial was attended by Chief Officers Richard Ogeda and Walter Okelo.
Also in attendance were Directors Susan Rabah ( HR), George Obare ( Transport), Eng Adrian Ouma ( Protocol), Gem Sub County Administrator Willis Aketch, among other staffs from CGS.
Notably Silas Jakakimba and CEO Public Service Board Wilfred Ouma Nyagudi kept vigil with the family Thursday night.
As the casket was lowered and prayers whispered into the Thursday afternoon breeze, grief mingled with gratitude. The community remembered a man who lived fully, served faithfully and loved deeply.
“Goodbye, Baba-na. Your journey on earth has ended, but your spirit remains with us,” one family tribute read — a sentiment echoed by all who gathered to honor Achieng Rajwayi.
He leaves behind not just a family, but a legacy: one of courage, community service and the enduring power of kinship.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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