Kalonzo Pays Traditional Tribute to Raila with 150 Cattle at Opoda Farm
Chants of “Jowi! Jowi!”-a Luo exclamation used to hail a hero and warriors-faced the team as they entered the Odinga compound.
The symbolic cries added a spiritual and cultural weight to the moment, underscoring the depth of respect extended to the fallen leader. Photo/courtesy
By Ruth sang
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka paid a heartfelt traditional tribute to his late political partner, Raila Odinga, by delivering a herd of cattle to the Odinga family home in Opoda Farm, Bondo, Siaya County. The symbolic gesture was representative of one of the Luo culture-deep ways of showing respect and honour to a dead former Prime Minister.
According to reports, Kalonzo arrived at the homestead with around 150 head of cattle-a remarkable offering that reflected not only deep friendship but also a powerful recognition of Raila’s stature as a national leader. The former Vice President led his delegation, clad in full traditional regalia and carrying a shield and spear, in the company of Kitui Senator Enock Wambua and several governors and members of parliament from the Ukambani region.
Chants of “Jowi! Jowi!”-a Luo exclamation used to hail a hero and warriors-faced the team as they entered the Odinga compound. The symbolic cries instilled the moment with spiritual and cultural weight, emphasizing the depth of respect extended to the fallen leader.
The visit was part of a traditional cleansing ritual called Tero Buru, carried out in Luo culture upon the death of an elder or person of great respect in society. It involves driving cattle around the homestead of the deceased, with the cultural explanation being to ward off bad luck, purify the area, and usher balance back into society. The use of bulls in the ritual is of particular significance, as it denotes bravery, strength, and leadership-all qualities the late Raila Odinga was generally known for.
Kalonzo’s act was filled with deep cultural meaning and emotional resonance, crossing Kenya’s varied political and ethnic lines as an act of unity and respect. It also depicted the long bond between the two leaders whose alliance has shaped Kenya’s politics for decades.
Raila Odinga was laid to rest on October 19 after a state funeral attended by national and international dignitaries and is still celebrated across the country for his contribution toward democracy, governance, and social justice. His passing on October 15 sparked nationwide mourning and a wave of tributes from friends, supporters, and former rivals.
But it was Kalonzo’s act at Opoda Farm that remained the most symbolic of farewell: a strong mix of tradition, loyalty, and respect to a man whose memory even now seems to unite Kenyans across political lines.
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