Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his beloved wife Ida Odinga, luminaries of Kenyan politics, commemorated a dual milestone in the grandest of styles. The Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel in Westlands, Nairobi County, was illuminated with joy as the power couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and Ida's 73rd birthday amidst an exclusive gathering of close friends, family, and luminaries from all walks of life.
In a star-studded event that dazzled the night, the Odinga family hosted a constellation of attendees, including celebrities, political allies, and cherished companions, to honor five decades of love and partnership between Raila and Ida Odinga.
The heart of the celebration was Ida Odinga, who was greeted with cheers and applause as she embarked on a thrilling hammer ride alongside her daughter Rosemary, Raila Jr., Winnie, and their jubilant grandchildren. The occasion held even more significance as the IOdinga family celebrated the second birthday of Raila Jr.'s child, a testament to the intertwining threads of family joy.
Political luminaries like Narc Kenya Party leader Martha Karua, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Likoni MP Mishi Mboko graced the event, underscoring the Odinga's enduring influence and the wide array of friendships they have nurtured.
Prince Indah and the dynamic Esther Akoth, popularly known as Akothee, enthralled the audience with their electrifying performances, adding an enchanting musical dimension to the festivity that extended well past midnight.
The evening's schedule unfolded with precision, commencing at 6:30 p.m. and continuing into the early hours, capturing the essence of both celebrations through diverse segments that culminated in the symbolic cutting of a magnificent birthday cake.
The evening was also a platform for poignant speeches, with Raila Odinga masterfully conveying his profound affection for Ida, emphasizing her role as the true love and steadfast support of his life. His words resonated with warmth, envisioning a future of shared happiness and devotion.
The highlight of the evening was a melodious performance by Raila Odinga himself. In a touching gesture, he serenaded Ida with the legendary "Jamaican Farewell" by Harry Belafonte, a homage to her deep admiration for the iconic singer and a testament to their enduring bond.
The festivities embraced a charitable spirit as well, with the Odinga children, led by Winnie, gifting their mother Ksh1 million toward the construction of the Ida Odinga Library at Ogande Girls in Homa Bay County. This philanthropic endeavor, costing Ksh350 million, reflects the Odinga family's dedication to education and empowerment.
As the night embraced the morning, the Odinga family's celebration remained an embodiment of love, joy, and the remarkable journey that Raila and Ida have shared. Their daughter Winnie playfully hinted at yet another intimate event planned for December, capturing the essence of the enduring saga that continues to unfold in the lives of this iconic couple.
"A year ago this place would have been packed to the end but we prefer it this way (small group) because these are the real ones. This is just the beginning, and we are encouraging them to do another wedding in December. We encourage their friends to push them to mark it," Winnie shared, eliciting laughter and mirth among the attendees.
