Coast

Mombasa to name road after Jaramogi Odinga - Governor Abdulswamad

The late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. (Photo: NMG)

By Amina Wako | Monday, January 22, 2024

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir said Jaramogi deserved recognition for the sacrifices he made for the nation.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has announced plans to name a road in the coastal city after Mzee Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

The governor made the announcement to honour Kenya’s first Vice President during the 30th memorial anniversary of Mzee Jaramogi, held on Saturday in Kisumu County.

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"As the Governor of Mombasa, I declare that a road in Mombasa County will be named after Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Jaramogi was a national leader, so I am also requesting his family to allow Mombasa to host the next memorial anniversary,” stated Governor Abdulswamad.

The move to immortalise Jaramogi through road naming comes eight years after a similar decision was made for the late Fidel Odinga, son of ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Despite facing criticism during Fidel Odinga's road-naming ceremony, former Governor Hassan Joho defended the decision, citing the Odinga family's contribution to Kenya’s second liberation and defence of human rights.

Sacrifices

Governor Abdulswamad echoed the sentiment, emphasising Jaramogi’s deserving recognition for the sacrifices he made for the nation.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir during the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the passing of Mzee Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in Kisumu on January 20, 2024. (Photo: X/Abdulswamad Nassir)

“He made immense contributions that benefited the country up to having the current devolved system of government, and the young generations need to be informed about all these,” stated the governor.

Leaders from Mombasa, including MPs Mishi Mboko (Likoni), Bady Twalib (Jomvu), and Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed, attended the memorial event. A delegation from the county assembly, led by Speaker Aharub Khatri and other ODM officials, was also present.

The 30th anniversary of Jaramogi's passing serves as a poignant moment to reflect on the enduring impact of his legacy.

The commemorative events, including a memorial service and lectures by those who closely worked with him, provided an opportunity for Kenyans to delve into the nuances of his contributions.

Jaramogi was recognised not just as a political figure but as a symbol of resilience and commitment to democratic ideals.

Speakers at the event maintained that his legacy continues to influence contemporary political discourse, inspiring a new generation of leaders to champion principles of justice, inclusivity, and political plurality.