Raila Odinga’s Sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, Passes Away
On the personal front, Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974. Ambala, who once pursued a political career, passed away in 1985 after suffering a heart attack while at Kodiaga Prison.
Beryl was a sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa. Photo/Courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
The Odinga family is mourning the loss of Beryl Achieng Odinga, the daughter of Kenya’s first Vice President, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Her death, which the family described as sudden and deeply heartbreaking, marks the passing of a woman who, despite coming from one of Kenya’s most recognizable political dynasties, chose to live much of her life away from the public gaze.
In a touching Facebook announcement, the family eulogized Beryl, who is a loving mother to her children: Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai. They described her as a pillar of strength, a compassionate soul, and someone whose presence brought warmth and unity to the people around her.
Beryl was a sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa. She was also a sister-in-law to Dr. Anne Oburu, Dr. Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu. The family expressed deep sorrow, citing the void left by her passing as immeasurable. They said they take comfort in their faith and the belief that she now rests in God’s embrace.
“It is with profound sadness, but acceptance of God’s will, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga,” the statement read. “Though her departure has left a chasm in our hearts, we are grateful for those precious moments shared with her and the indelible impact she left in every life she touched.”
Although she kept a low profile, Beryl was an accomplished professional who had an impressive academic and career journey. After her Form Six A-Levels in December 1972, she moved between teaching and law, where she excelled in both. Her career took her to Zimbabwe, where she broke barriers by becoming the first black Town Clerk of Mutare-the country’s third-largest city.
After relocating to Zimbabwe and re-establishing herself as a resident, she continued to excel in her professional work and went ahead to serve as the Company Secretary of the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe. Later on, her career expanded to Kenya, where she took on a leadership position as the Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company. She had earlier been appointed to the company’s board in January 2020.
Beryl also had notable educational ties with renowned Kenyan leaders. During Senator Oburu Oginga’s birthday celebration in October 2023, she shared memories of having studied alongside former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.
On the personal front, Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974. Ambala, who once pursued a political career, passed away in 1985 after suffering a heart attack while at Kodiaga Prison. Her passing signifies the end of a remarkable life typified by resilience, professionalism, and quiet strength-all qualities that will be recalled with fondness by her family, friends, and all who knew her.
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