Raila Amolo Odinga is one of the most influential and iconic political figures in Kenya’s history. Known widely as “Baba,” Raila Odinga has played a central role in shaping Kenya’s democratic journey.
Over the decades, he has evolved from an activist to a seasoned statesman, serving in various high-ranking government positions and leading major political movements that transformed Kenya’s governance structure.
Profile Data
- Full Name: Raila Amolo Odinga
- Born: 7 January 1945
- Age (at death): 80 years
- Death: 15 October 2025
- Birthplace: Maseno, Kisumu District, Nyanza Province, Kenya
- Nationality: Kenyan
- Occupation: Politician, Engineer, Businessman
- Parents: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga (father), Mary Ajuma Odinga (mother)
- Siblings: Oburu Odinga, Wenwa Akinyi Odinga, Ruth Odinga (among others)
- Spouse: Ida Odinga (née Ida Anyango Oyoo)
- Children: Fidel Odinga (deceased 2015), Rosemary Odinga, Raila Odinga Jr., Winnie Odinga
- Religion: Christianity (Anglican / born-again Christian)
- Net Worth: ~ US$50 million (estimated)
Early Life and Background
Raila Amolo Odinga was born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Kenya. He is the son of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a major figure in the independence movement.
Education
Raila Odinga studied in Kenya before moving toEducation
Raila Odinga studied in Kenya before moving to East Germany for higher education. He attended:
- Herder Institute, Leipzig
- Magdeburg University of Technology
He earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in welding and metalwork.
Early Career
Raila Odinga worked as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi before serving as Group Standards Manager at the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). His engineering background strengthened his leadership and administrative expertise.
Political Career
Pro-Democracy Struggle and Detention
In the 1980s, Raila became a leading figure in Kenya’s fight for multi-party democracy. He was detained multiple times without trial for alleged involvement in the 1982 coup attempt, although he denied the accusations.
Introduction of Multi-Party Democracy
Raila was instrumental in the repeal of Section 2A, which restored multi-party democracy in Kenya in the early 1990s.
Member of Parliament
He was elected MP for Lang’ata Constituency in 1992 and served for over two decades.
Ministerial Positions
- Minister for Energy (2001–2003)
- Minister for Roads, Public Works and Housing (2003–2005)
Prime Minister of Kenya (2008–2013)
After the disputed 2007 elections, Raila Odinga became Kenya’s Prime Minister under the Grand Coalition Government. His tenure saw the birth of the 2010 Constitution.
Presidential Campaigns
Raila has run for president five times: 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022.
Personal Life
Raila Odinga is married to Ida Odinga. They have four children: Fidel (late), Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie.
Net Worth
Raila Odinga’s estimated net worth is between $40 million and $50 million.
Achievements and Legacy
- Fought for multi-party democracy
- Oversaw implementation of the 2010 Constitution
- Served as African Union High Representative for Infrastructure
- Influenced Kenya’s political evolution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Raila Odinga?
He is a Kenyan politician, engineer, former Prime Minister, and democracy advocate.
2. When was Raila Odinga born?
January 7, 1945.
3. What is Raila Odinga’s net worth?
Estimated between $40 million and $50 million.
4. Who is Raila Odinga’s wife?
Ida Anyango Odinga.
5. Did Raila Odinga serve as Prime Minister?
Yes, from 2008 to 2013.
Conclusion
Raila Odinga remains one of the most transformative and influential leaders in Kenya’s political history. His work in democracy, constitutional reforms, and governance has shaped the country for generations. Whether celebrated as “Baba” or respected as a statesman, Raila Odinga’s impact continues to be felt across Kenya and Africa.