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The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's deep appreciation for rhumba music extended beyond mere enjoyment, significantly impacting the Nairobi-based Bilenge Musica du Congo band through a substantial donation that enabled them to acquire vital instruments.
Nairobi, Kenya – The rhythmic beats of rhumba music often filled the air wherever former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was present, a testament to his profound love for the genre. This passion translated into tangible support for the Nairobi-based Bilenge Musica du Congo band, whose leader, Darzee Kalend, recently revealed a KSh 300,000 donation from Odinga that proved transformative for the group.
Kalend recounted that approximately four years ago, Odinga, after a show, discreetly handed him the sum, which he light-heartedly referred to as a "soda." Instead of sharing the cash among the members, the band collectively decided to invest in much-needed musical instruments. These instruments, still in use today, serve as a constant reminder of Odinga's generosity and his impact on their musical journey.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics, revered for his democratic ideals and his notable engagement with the country's vibrant music scene. His relationship with Kenyan musicians spanned decades, with artists across various genres composing songs that celebrated his resilience and political struggles.
Odinga's affinity for rhumba was well-known. Darzee Kalend noted that Odinga had a particular fondness for a specific rhumba song, which the band would always perform when he was in attendance. Odinga was known for his energetic dancing, often staying on his feet for hours, showcasing his deep connection to the music.
The band even drew inspiration from Odinga's presence, composing the song "Baba Anakuja" (Baba is Coming) after he attended one of their concerts in Bondo, Siaya County. This song was later used in Odinga's 2022 presidential campaign.
Odinga's support for the arts extended to advocating for artists' welfare and intellectual property rights. In May 2022, he made history by becoming the first politician in Kenya to comply with the Copyright Bill, 2021, paying KSh 562,500 to the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) for the use of campaign songs. This act was widely seen as a significant step towards promoting fair compensation for artists.
The passing of Raila Odinga has elicited an outpouring of tributes from artists across Kenya and beyond, underscoring his perceived role as an advocate for the creative community. Darzee Kalend, still grappling with the loss, described Odinga as "a leader who was an example for many Africans," and "a father, a brother." He revealed that the band plans to compose another tribute song for Odinga.
Other musicians, including Ohangla artist Prince Indah, gospel singer Christina Shusho, and Tanzanian musician Rayvanny, have released tribute songs in Odinga's honour. Bien-Aimé Baraza of Sauti Sol described Odinga as a "library of wisdom" whose ideals of truth, peace, and democracy must live on.
While Odinga's support for musicians is widely acknowledged, the extent to which his political influence directly translated into tangible, widespread improvements for the industry remains a subject of ongoing discussion. The effectiveness of Collective Management Organisations in ensuring fair compensation for all artists has also been a recurring point of contention.
Bilenge Musica du Congo, which performs regularly at the New Dream Village Bar in South B, Nairobi, has dedicated their recent shows to Odinga's memory. They are actively planning to compose a new tribute song.
The Kenyan music industry will be watching to see how the legacy of Raila Odinga's support for artists is carried forward. Discussions around artists' rights, fair compensation, and the role of political figures in promoting local talent are likely to continue. The impact of Odinga's actions, such as his compliance with the Copyright Bill, may set a precedent for future engagement between politicians and the creative sector.
