Shock as Raila Odinga’s Private Pillar, Beryl Achieng, Passes Away – Who Was She?
Kenyans on the afternoon of November 25, 2025, received the sad news that Beryl Achieng Odinga, the quietly formidable sister of late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has died. The announcement came via a statement from her sister, Ruth Odinga, leaving the Odinga family—and the wider nation—grappling with yet another blow.
Unlike her high-profile siblings, Beryl kept a low public profile and largely stayed away from overt politics. According to a family source, she had been “in and out of hospital” for some time, receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital. Her illness was long-standing, the source added, noting she had even been admitted at the same Indian facility where Raila was treated.
Beryl’s life wasn’t defined by political campaigns, but by public service—and significant firsts:
First Black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe: After fleeing Kenya in the 1980s, she built a career in Zimbabwe, serving in a key municipal role.
Company Secretary, Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe: Backed by her legal training, she helped steer this important public institution.
Chairperson, Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC): In 2020, she returned to Kenya to serve on NWSC’s board where she oversaw crucial operations.
Born into the storied Odinga dynasty, Beryl was the daughter of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mary Ajuma Oginga. She completed her A-Levels (“Form Six”) in December 1972, later qualifying in both teaching and law.
At a celebration in 2023, she revealed she had shared classrooms with notable Kenyan figures—Kalonzo Musyoka and Anyang’ Nyong’o among them.
Beryl’s private strength was matched by personal hardship. She married Otieno Ambala in 1974. Their union became troubled over the years, with Raila’s 2014 memoir The Flame of Freedom recounting episodes of abuse. Her husband later died in 1985, whilst she had already moved to Zimbabwe with her children.
She had three children: Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai.
In her statement, Ruth Odinga described Beryl as “a loving mother … a pillar within the Odinga household.” The family expressed deep sorrow but said they take comfort in faith:
“We take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms… we are thankful for the time we privileged to share with her.”
Her death comes less than six weeks after the passing of her brother, Raila Odinga, on October 15, 2025. For a family already in mourning, Beryl’s loss is another profound reminder of a legacy built on resilience, public service, and quiet but powerful influence.
Though she steered clear of the political limelight, Beryl Achieng Odinga’s life carved out its own form of leadership—a testament to strength without fanfare, and service without showmanship.
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