As Kenya prepares to lay former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga to rest today, new details have emerged about the unique design and construction of his final resting place at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
Overseeing the meticulous work is Engineer Maurice Akech, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Construction Authority (NCA), who confirmed that Odinga’s grave will not be filled with soil in the traditional manner.
A Special Burial Design for Raila Odinga
According to Engineer Akech, the grave has been constructed using modern engineering techniques to ensure durability, strength, and permanence.
“This is normally a special one. We will not return the soil inside the hole once the tiling and plaster work are complete,” he explained. “Apart from the symbolic soil, which must be added as part of the tradition, the rest will be sealed using proper formwork.”
The symbolic soil will represent the cultural “soil to soil” ritual, after which the engineers will begin the reinforcement process.
Reinforced Formwork and Permanent Structure
Akech detailed that the team will use reinforced materials, including mabati sheets and D12S steel bars, to strengthen the interior. After the final ceremony, a slab will be poured in situ — meaning it will be cast directly at the site — to permanently cover the resting place.
“We will cover it, let it dry, and later apply a proper finishing detail on top,” he added. “Eventually, the grave will resemble that of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, his father.”
Final Look: A Tomb-Like Design
The completed site will take the form of a tomb-like structure, similar to the Odinga family mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where Jaramogi and Mary Ajuma Odinga were buried.
The design aims to preserve the dignity and permanence of the site while ensuring structural safety in accordance with National Construction Authority standards.
