Bondo becomes a living shrine as thousands continue to flock to Raila’s final resting place

What was once a tranquil rural homestead has transformed into a living national shrine, drawing thousands of visitors daily from across Kenya and beyond, all seeking a moment at the final resting place of a man many simply called Baba.

At the heart of this ongoing pilgrimage is a group of traditional drummers and singers who have, for weeks, kept vigil at the graveside. Every day from morning to evening, the rhythmic beat of drums and soulful Luo melodies fill the air, offering both comfort and tribute to a leader who often used music and dance to rally and inspire the nation.

The performers say they are not paid for their services, instead offering their time as a personal act of honour.

“We come here every day from 8am to 6pm. We are not paid. If mourners feel touched, they may tip us,” one of the drummers explained.

As they perform, the artists bear witness to the sheer diversity of mourners who continue to arrive — from local villagers to visitors from distant counties and even neighbouring countries.

“We see people of all kinds. Some come from as far as Sudan. Recently, cyclists rode all the way from Malindi to come and pay their respects,” another drummer said.

The steady stream of visitors has far exceeded the family’s expectations. Raila Odinga’s younger brother, Omondi Odinga, says the volume of mourners continues to grow with each passing day.

“We estimate that at least nine million people have passed through these gates since the burial,” Omondi said. “The love for Raila was not just political; it was deeply personal. The flowers you see here are overwhelming. We manage them with dignity — once they dry, we collect them respectfully — but new ones arrive even faster. It shows he was truly a father to many.”

The graveside is now surrounded by a colourful mountain of wreaths and floral tributes, each telling a quiet story of loss, gratitude, and remembrance.

Beyond the emotion and symbolism, the pilgrimage has also sparked an unexpected economic revival. With the influx of visitors, a bustling micro-economy has emerged around Kango Ka Jaramogi, breathing new life into the local community.

Small-scale traders, once struggling to make ends meet, now find steady business selling food, memorabilia, and clothing associated with the late leader.

“We sell caps with Jakom’s image,” said trader Anastacia Anyango. “People loved him, so when they see the caps, they buy and even help promote our business.”

She adds that prices have doubled due to high demand, with caps that once sold for Sh500 now fetching up to Sh1,000.