Raila Amolo Odinga stands as one of Kenya’s most enduring and influential political figures, whose career spans over four decades of public service, reform advocacy, and democratic resistance. Born into a legacy of leadership as the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila carved his own path through turbulent political landscapes, marked by detentions, landmark reforms, and relentless opposition campaigns. Serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in the historic Grand Coalition Government, Odinga played a pivotal role in stabilizing post-election tensions and spearheading constitutional transformation. Revered for his unwavering commitment to electoral justice and governance accountability, he remains a central figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution. This biography presents a meticulously verified chronicle of his life, political milestones, and legacy—anchored in credible records and contextual expertise. It is a definitive resource for understanding the man behind Kenya’s most resilient opposition movement.

Also Read: Milind Chandwani Biography: The Complete Account, Verified Records & Legacy

Raila Odinga Age (Verified Timeline and Records)

Raila Amolo Odinga, born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya, is currently 80 years old—an enduring statesman shaped by decades of political engagement.

Raila Odinga Net Worth (Analysis of Assets and Holdings)

Raila Odinga’s estimated net worth of approximately $500 million reflects decades of strategic enterprise and public service. A trained engineer, he founded East African Spectre Ltd, a leading manufacturer of LPG cylinders in East Africa. His wealth stems from diversified investments, legacy holdings, and influence across energy, real estate, and political consultancy.

Raila Odinga Parents (Documented Origin and Childhood)

Raila Odinga was born to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, and Mary Juma Odinga, both of distinguished Luo heritage rooted in political activism.

Raila Odinga Children (Profiles of the Immediate Family)

Raila Odinga is a father to four children: Fidel, Winnie, Rosemary, and Raila Jr. His family carries a strong political legacy, with Winnie actively involved in public affairs. Tragically, his eldest son, Fidel Odinga, passed away in 2015, marking a somber chapter in the Odinga family’s storied public life.

Raila Odinga Education (Credentials and Qualifications)

Raila Odinga’s academic journey reflects a foundation of technical expertise and disciplined scholarship. He attended Maranda High School, one of Kenya’s respected institutions, where he excelled in science and mathematics. Pursuing higher education abroad, he earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Magdeburg in East Germany. His studies focused on industrial systems and metallurgical processes, equipping him with analytical skills that later informed his business ventures and policy perspectives. Odinga’s educational background underscores his capacity for strategic thinking and problem-solving—traits that have consistently shaped his leadership in both public service and private enterprise.

Also Read: Avika Gor Biography: The Complete Account, Verified Records & Legacy

Raila Odinga Wife (Marital Status and Partner Profile)

Raila Odinga has been married to Ida Odinga since 1973. A respected educator and advocate, Ida has played a pivotal role in supporting Raila’s political journey and public engagements.

Raila Odinga: Five Presidential Bids and Allegations of Electoral Fraud

Raila Odinga has contested Kenya’s presidency five times—1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—emerging each time as a formidable opposition candidate. His campaigns consistently galvanized national support, yet all ended in defeat amid claims of electoral malpractice. The 2007 and 2017 elections were particularly contentious, with widespread allegations of vote rigging and procedural irregularities. In a landmark legal victory, Odinga successfully petitioned the Supreme Court in 2017, leading to the annulment of the presidential results and a court-ordered re-run—the first such ruling in Kenya’s history. His persistent challenges have spotlighted systemic flaws in Kenya’s electoral processes and fueled calls for institutional reform.

Raila Odinga: Detention, Coup Charges, and Exile under Moi’s Regime

In 1982, Raila Odinga was implicated in the failed coup attempt against President Daniel arap Moi’s regime, allegedly linked to dissident elements within the Kenya Air Force. Though never formally tried, Odinga was detained for six years without charge—one of the longest political imprisonments in Kenya’s post-independence history. His incarceration marked a turning point, transforming him into a national symbol of democratic resistance and civil courage. Upon release, Odinga faced continued surveillance and eventually sought exile in Norway. These events cemented his reputation as a fearless advocate for multiparty democracy and institutional accountability during one of Kenya’s most repressive eras.

Raila Odinga: African Union High Representative and International Diplomacy

From 2018 to 2023, Raila Odinga served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, tasked with advancing transcontinental transport and energy integration. His tenure focused on flagship projects under the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), promoting connectivity and economic growth across member states. Odinga also pursued the AU Commission Chairperson role in 2023, though his bid was ultimately unsuccessful. Beyond infrastructure, he has played a diplomatic role in regional mediation, notably in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, leveraging his political experience to foster dialogue and stability in conflict-prone zones across the continent.

Also Read: Sommie Maduagwu Biography: The Complete Account, Verified Records & Legacy

Raila Odinga Sister (Ruth Odinga’s Political Profile and Influence)

Ruth Odinga, Raila Odinga’s prominent sister, has held influential roles including Kisumu County Deputy Governor and Women Representative. A vocal member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), she reinforces the Odinga family’s political legacy, championing grassroots mobilization, regional development, and women’s empowerment within Kenya’s evolving democratic landscape.

Raila Odinga: Definitive Fact Sheet and Career Highlights

• Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya.
• Son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a founding figure in post-independence politics.
• Served as Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government.
• Holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Magdeburg, East Germany.
• Detained without trial for six years (1982–1988) following allegations linked to a failed coup.
• Founder and leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a major opposition party.
• Contested the presidency five times: 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022.
• Father of four children: Fidel (deceased), Winnie, Rosemary, and Raila Jr.
• Served as African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development (2018–2023).
• Continues to be a central figure in Kenya’s democratic reform and regional diplomacy.