Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Beryl Achieng Odinga, younger sister of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on Tuesday at Nairobi Hospital at the age of 78, just five weeks after her brother’s death.
Ruto described Beryl as a pioneering woman and distinguished professional whose contributions left a lasting mark both in Kenya and across Africa.
“The late Beryl Achieng Odinga was a trailblazer whose distinguished career took her across the continent, from Kenya to Zimbabwe. She made her mark as an exceptional urban planner in Zimbabwe in the 1980s, contributing to transformative urban development,” Ruto said.
Beryl’s career spanned teaching, law, and public service. After completing her Form Six in 1972, she pursued teaching and law, later becoming the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city.
She played a pivotal role in designing and implementing the Chitungwiza Town planning policy, modernizing the city’s framework, curbing informal settlements, and shaping its urban development for decades.
She also served as Company Secretary at the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe and, in 2020, was appointed Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), where she championed reforms that strengthened the institution and improved service delivery.
Beryl married Otieno Ambala in 1974, with whom she had children. Following challenges in her marriage, she relocated to Zimbabwe in the 1980s, where she rebuilt her life and career. She remained an inspirational figure, credited for mentoring and empowering women in leadership.
President Ruto hailed Beryl as “a great intellectual and pioneering woman who opened doors and lit the path for many career women. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
He extended condolences on behalf of all Kenyans to the Odinga family, adding: “May God’s grace, comfort, and compassion be with you during this difficult time.”
Beryl Achieng Odinga’s work in urban development and public service continues to be recognized for breaking barriers, modernizing cities, strengthening institutions, and empowering women.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Odinga family in the coming days.