Raila Odinga Honours Winnie Mandela

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga on Saturday sent a compelling message from Winnie Mandela's funeral service in South Africa.

Through his social media, the opposition leader stated that the South African's place in history was already cast in stone urging African countries to fight for equality and against oppression.

"As we bury Winnie, it is our hope that her death will resurrect in all African countries the purpose of the struggles that we have waged at different times but often with the same goal of bequeathing freedom, dignity and economic empowerment to our people.

[caption caption="Raila and Ida in South Africa"][/caption]

"We thank South Africa and the ANC for giving us Winnie Mandela and standing with her to date. Africa needs many more Winnie Mandelas," he conveyed.

Raila who left for South Africa on Friday with his wife Ida Odinga was received by Amb. Jean N. Kamau, High Commissioner of Kenya to South Africa.

[caption caption="Ida Odinga in South Africa"][/caption]

He met with Deputy President H.E David Mabuza, International Relations Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, Former President H.E Thabo Mbeki, H.E Paulino José Macaringue, and a host of other dignitaries for the Winnie Mandela Memorial at Orlando Stadium.

"We can say without fear of contradiction that all the struggles of the African woman for the liberation of Africa and our individual countries are summed up in the life and experiences of Winnie Mandela: personal, passionate, painful, inspiring and disruptive but ultimately rewarding to our people.

"Winnie remains in the eternal memory of those who watched her struggles and experiences dispassionately and from a distance. She gave South Africa her all, gained much in terms of bringing freedom to her people, and lost so much at a personal level in the process," he added.

He concluded his message with: "Hamba Kahle (Walk well) Mama Winnie Madikizela Mandela!"

President Uhuru Kenyatta also made his tribute to Winnie Mandela with a Zulu worded statement through his social media account.

He wrote: Go well heroine, icon, liberator. Lala Ngoxolo. Qhawe lama qhawe (which is Zulu for: Rest in peace. The hero of this warrior).

[caption caption="Raila meeting South African leaders"][/caption]

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