EACCIA President Richard Ngatia pays tribute to Raila Odinga

The President of the East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (EACCIA), Richard Ngatia, has paid tribute to Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who died on Wednesday morning while receiving treatment in India.

Ngatia described Raila as a visionary leader who greatly contributed to the growth of Kenya’s entrepreneurial and industrial sectors.

He said Raila’s leadership went beyond politics, leaving a lasting mark on the country’s business environment and supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises.

Ngatia recalled Raila’s personal friendship and empathy, noting that the former Prime Minister attended his father’s funeral in Kangemi in 2021 and often offered encouragement during difficult times.

He also remembered Raila’s support during the launch of his book ‘Commerce and Industry in Kenya – A Historical Perspective’ in 2022, where Raila was the chief guest.

The book traces the evolution of trade and industry in Kenya from precolonial times to the present day, highlighting the development of agriculture and the introduction of crops such as tea, coffee, maize, sugar, sisal, and cashew nuts.

Ngatia said he wrote the book to document the often-untold story of Kenya’s commercial growth and the role played by local entrepreneurs through the Chamber movement.

During the book launch, Raila reflected on his own business journey, recalling how he founded East African Spectre after acquiring machinery from an Indian businessman who fled Uganda during Idi Amin’s regime.

He praised the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), which Ngatia once led, for strengthening links among businesspeople and giving entrepreneurs a stronger voice.

Ngatia said Raila’s guidance and encouragement helped the Chamber expand membership and support for enterprises across the country.

He described the late leader as a strong supporter of trade and innovation, whose influence would continue to shape Kenya’s business landscape for years to come.