In her heartfelt message, she reflected on the deep meaning behind the names of their four children — Fidel, Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie.
Ida began by recalling her 52 years of marriage to Raila, saying their journey together was filled with love, patience, and shared dreams.
Ida began by recalling her 52 years of marriage to Raila, saying their journey together was filled with love, patience, and shared dreams.
She explained that each of their children’s names was carefully chosen to carry a story of hope, history, and inspiration.
Their firstborn son, Fidel Castro Odhiambo Odinga, was named after the Cuban revolutionary Fidel Castro — a leader Raila admired for his courage and commitment to justice.
Their firstborn son, Fidel Castro Odhiambo Odinga, was named after the Cuban revolutionary Fidel Castro — a leader Raila admired for his courage and commitment to justice.
Ida admitted that she was hesitant at first but later came to appreciate the name’s strength and symbolism. Fidel, who passed away in 2015, left behind his wife Lwam and son Allay.
Their second-born, Rosemary Odinga, was named after both of their mothers — Rose and Mary — to honor the women who raised and influenced them. Ida said the name “Rosemary” represented family unity and love.
Their second-born, Rosemary Odinga, was named after both of their mothers — Rose and Mary — to honor the women who raised and influenced them. Ida said the name “Rosemary” represented family unity and love.
Rosemary has built a name for herself as a snail farmer and social advocate, even after recovering from a serious illness that temporarily affected her sight.
Ida revealed that their third child, Raila Oginga Odinga (Junior), was not named after his father as many people think.
Ida revealed that their third child, Raila Oginga Odinga (Junior), was not named after his father as many people think.
Instead, he was named in memory of Raila’s cousin and best friend, Raila Kimbo. Junior has stayed away from active politics, choosing to focus on business and family life.
Finally, their youngest, Winnie Irmgard Odinga, got her name from South African freedom fighter Winnie Mandela.
Finally, their youngest, Winnie Irmgard Odinga, got her name from South African freedom fighter Winnie Mandela.
Ida said she decided on the name while watching Nelson Mandela walk out of prison in 1990, holding hands with Winnie Mandela. The moment touched her deeply, and she promised to name her unborn baby after the courageous woman.
Ida encouraged parents to choose meaningful names that inspire strength and purpose. Her tribute left mourners emotional as she celebrated her husband’s legacy — not just as a leader but as a devoted family man whose influence will live on through his children.
Ida encouraged parents to choose meaningful names that inspire strength and purpose. Her tribute left mourners emotional as she celebrated her husband’s legacy — not just as a leader but as a devoted family man whose influence will live on through his children.
