"I am Learning to Live with the Widow Tag,” Ida Odinga Opens Up on Her New Chapter

Ida Odinga has spoken about adjusting to life after the passing of her husband, Raila Odinga, recalling how the identity of “widow” has settled on her unexpectedly. 

In recent remarks, she admitted the label felt strange but is one she is gradually coming to accept.

Having been married to Raila for over five decades, Ida said she “never imagined becoming a widow at this age,” as the reality of his death still weighs heavily on her.

Her statement came as she welcomed hundreds of widows to her home in Bondo, Siaya County, in a gesture of solidarity and comfort.

She revealed that in the immediate aftermath of her husband’s passing, she was surprised to hear people refer to her as “Raila’s widow.” 

The new name, she said, felt like an unexpected baptism into a role she had not foreseen.

Despite the pain, Ida expressed gratitude for the support groups and fellow widows standing with her during this transition.

“I know I have a big, strong group of widows who will be by my side,” she said, emphasising the importance of community and shared strength.

Now, as she navigates this new chapter, Ida is not just reflecting on her personal loss but also on the legacy of her late husband his values.

His struggle for the nation, and how she wishes to honour him moving forward.

While the mourning is still fresh, she is slowly embracing life beyond him, acknowledging that the title of “widow” is indeed part of her story—but not the whole of it.