Bondo, Kenya, Oct’ 26, 2025— Hundreds of Arsenal Football Club fans from across Kenya on Sunday made a heartfelt pilgrimage to the late Raila Odinga’s final resting place in Bondo. They paid tribute to the fallen leader, who was a lifelong supporter of the English Premier League side.
The emotional visit saw fans dressed in Arsenal colours streaming into the Odinga homestead, carrying flags, flowers, and memorabilia in honour of a man who not only shaped Kenya’s political landscape but also shared a deep love for the game.
The supporters presented Mama Ida Odinga and Raila Odinga Junior with two special Arsenal jerseys — one emblazoned with the name “Raila” on the back, and another marked with the number 80, symbolizing his age at the time of his death. They also delivered a beautifully framed portrait of the late leader and a special message of condolence sent by Arsenal Football Club in London.
In their message, the fans described Raila as “a leader whose resilience, teamwork, and passion reflected the true spirit of Arsenal.” Many noted that his devotion to the club united supporters from all walks of life and inspired countless Kenyans to embrace the beautiful game.
Mama Ida Odinga, visibly touched, thanked the fans for their heartfelt tribute and solidarity.
“Raila’s love for Arsenal was unmatched. He found joy in the beautiful game and believed football could bring people together. Your visit today shows how deeply he connected with people,” she said.
The visit came weeks after Arsenal FC publicly mourned Raila’s death, describing him as “a dedicated supporter and a man who embodied unity, strength, and passion.”
As the fans concluded their visit, they shared a heartfelt post on their official page:
“Arsenal fans from across the country make a special pilgrimage to Raila Odinga’s final resting place in Bondo to pay their respects to the legend. Gone but forever in our hearts. All the best to Arsenal as you face it off with Crystal Palace later this evening.”
The rest of the week has seen a steady stream of visitors to the Odinga home. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta visited the family the day after Raila’s burial, joining a growing list of national leaders, dignitaries, and ordinary Kenyans who continue to make their way to Bondo to offer their condolences.
It is clear that Raila Odinga’s name — and the values he stood for — will not fade away anytime soon. His legacy lives on, not only in politics but in the hearts of millions who saw in him the true spirit of resilience, unity, and hope.
It’s amazing to see how far Raila’s influence reaches, even in sports like football. The tribute from Arsenal fans really shows how much he meant to so many people.