By John Mutiso
Late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, is dead.
Kisumu County Woman Representative and sister Ruth Odinga announced her death in a statement on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
“It is with a heavy heart but accepting the will of God we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. Daughter to the Late Hon Jaramogi Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Mother to Ami Auma, Chizi and Taurai Sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, Rt Hon Raila Odinga, Akinyi Wenwa amongst others. Sister-in-law to Dr Anne Oburu, Dr Canon Ida Odinga, hon Tabu Osewe and Judy Oburu.
While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms and are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”
Achieng has largely kept out of the public spotlight unlike some of her siblings, choosing not to participate directly in politics.
She became the first Black person to serve as Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city—an achievement that marked a significant milestone.
In 2020, she took on a key leadership position when she was named Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC).
Overall, Beryl Achieng Odinga is recognized as a trained professional who has led various public-sector institutions.
Even with her family’s strong political background, she has pursued a more private career path while still making meaningful contributions to public service in Kenya and beyond.
