Raila Odinga Biography: Politics, Education, News, Children, Age & Net Worth

Raila Amolo Odinga is among the most significant and polarizing figures in modern Kenyan politics. Over decades he has been a symbol of resistance, reform, controversy, and popular appeal.

This Raila Odinga biography dives deep into his early life, education, political journey, controversies, achievements, and enduring legacy. Whether you’re a student, political enthusiast, or just curious, this is your full guide.

Early Life & Family Background

Birth and Family: Raila Odinga was born on 7 January 1945 in Maseno, Kisumu District (then Kenya Colony).
Parents: His father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was Kenya’s first Vice President under Jomo Kenyatta. His mother was Mary Juma Odinga.
Ethnic & Cultural Roots: He belongs to the Luo ethnic group, a major community in western Kenya.

Growing up in a politically active household, Raila was exposed early to ideas of African nationalism, decolonization, and political activism.

Education & Formative Years

Primary & Secondary Schooling: Raila attended Kisumu Union Primary, Maranda Primary, and Maranda High School until 1962.
Studies in East Germany: After leaving Kenya in 1962, he enrolled at the Herder Institut (to study German language as preparation) in East Germany.
In 1965, he got a scholarship to Technische Hochschule Magdeburg (which is now part of Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg).
He completed with a Diplom (roughly equivalent to a master’s) in Mechanical Engineering and Welding in 1970.

While studying in East Germany, he also made trips into West Berlin (through Checkpoint Charlie), sometimes bringing goods to friends not readily available in East Berlin.

Early Career & Business Ventures

Return to Kenya: In 1970, Raila returned to Kenya and founded Standard Processing Equipment Construction & Erection Ltd, later rebranded as East African Spectre Ltd., which manufactured liquefied petroleum gas cylinders.
Public Service Role: In 1974, he became Group Standards Manager at the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KeBS). Later, in 1978, he was appointed as Deputy Director at KeBS.

His early years combined technical, managerial, and entrepreneurial roles, giving him insight into Kenya’s industrial and regulatory sectors.

Entry into Politics & Struggles

Arrest and Detention: In 1982, under President Daniel arap Moi’s regime, Raila was detained without trial for six years for alleged involvement in a failed coup or dissenting political activity.
After release, he continued his activism. He faced further arrests, trials, and even exile: he sought refuge in Norway in 1991.
In 1992, he returned to Kenya and joined the movement toward multiparty democracy. He was elected as Member of Parliament (MP) for Langata constituency.

Parliamentary & Ministerial Roles

Raila has served multiple terms in Parliament representing Langata (and earlier in other roles).
He held ministerial portfolios:
• Energy Minister (2001–2002)
• Minister for Roads, Public Works & Housing (2003–2005)
His shifting party affiliations: Raila has been involved in various parties (FORD-K, NDP, KANU, ODM).

The 2007 Election & The Prime Ministership

In the 2007 presidential election, Raila was a leading contender under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The election outcome was highly contested. Violence erupted across Kenya, with over a thousand lives lost in the post-election turmoil.
A mediated power-sharing agreement brokered by Kofi Annan created a Grand Coalition Government. Raila became Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013.
Under that coalition, he championed reforms including constitutional review, infrastructure investments, and attempts to curb corruption.

Later Political Career & Presidential Bids

After the coalition period, Raila continued to play a key role as Leader of the Opposition.
He has run for the presidency multiple times (1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, 2022) — though none were successful.
In 2022, Raila selected Martha Karua as his running mate. He contested, but William Ruto was declared winner, a result Raila challenged in court.
He has also sought regional roles: in 2025 he vied for the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (though he did not secure it).
In 2025, the Kenyan government dispatched him as a special envoy to mediate in South Sudan’s crisis.

Controversies & Criticisms

1. Electoral Disputes & Fraud Allegations
   Raila has frequently contested election results, often citing electoral manipulation. Critics argue his rhetoric inflames ethnic tensions.
2. Health & Absence Speculation
   Like many senior figures, his health and whereabouts have occasionally drawn public speculation.
3. Allegations of Business Influence
   His business interests (e.g. Spectre East Africa) have been subject to scrutiny—some claim conflicts of interest.
4. Alliance Shifts & Pacts
   He has often entered power-sharing pacts with rival governments, which critics view as compromises on principle.

Legacy, Achievements & Influence

Constitutional Reforms: His tenure helped usher in Kenya’s 2010 constitution, expanding rights, devolution, and checks on executive power.
Political Mobilization: He has remained a central force in Kenya’s opposition politics, inspiring and mobilizing large bases of supporters.
Peace & Diplomacy: His role in mediating regional conflicts and advocating pan-African cooperation is increasingly recognized.
Symbolism: For many, Raila represents perseverance, resisting marginalization, and pushing for institutional change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When was Raila Odinga Prime Minister?

A: He served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government.

Q: How many times has Raila Odinga run for President?

A: He has run in five presidential contests: 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022.

Q: What is Raila Odinga’s educational background?

A: He studied in East Germany, obtaining a Diplom (akin to master’s) in Mechanical Engineering and Welding in 1970.

Q: Is Raila Odinga related to Barack Obama?

A: There has been speculation about a distant relation, but no confirmed direct relationship.

Q: What is his role in current Kenyan politics (as of 2025)?

A: He still leads the opposition (ODM), participates in pacts with the government, engages in diplomatic missions, and influences policy and public discourse.

Q: What is East African Spectre Ltd.?

A: It is a company founded by Raila which manufactures LPG cylinders and other industrial equipment in Kenya.

Conclusion

Raila Odinga’s biography is not just the story of one politician but reflects Kenya’s own post-independence struggles — democratic deficits, ethnic tensions, reforms, and the quest for accountability. Whether one agrees with him or opposes him, his resilience, persistence, and enduring influence are undeniable.

From his early years in Germany to the corridors of power as Prime Minister, to continuous crusades in opposition — Raila remains a major force. His legacy will likely be debated for generations: champion of reform or divisive figure, depending on one’s perspective. But his mark on Kenya’s political landscape is permanent.