Kisumu, Kenya – In a poignant moment during the funeral service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, his sister, Ruth Odinga, publicly introduced her Ghanaian husband, Nana Busia, to mourners. The introduction, made on Saturday, October 19, 2025, at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Bondo, Siaya County, marked a rare public glimpse into her personal life.

Ruth Odinga, who currently serves as the Kisumu County Woman Representative, has largely maintained a private stance on her marital life. However, during her tribute to her late brother, she shared that it was Raila Odinga who had introduced her to her husband.

Addressing the gathering, Ruth Odinga stated, "Many of you may not know this, but it was Raila who introduced me to my husband. Today, I want to introduce him to you as we say goodbye to a man who not only shaped our country but also brought love into my life."

Nana Busia, dressed in distinctive Ghanaian attire, stood alongside Ruth Odinga and their two sons, drawing admiration from those present. His presence and the public introduction added a unique dimension to the solemn occasion, which saw thousands gather to pay their last respects to the former Prime Minister.

Political and Family Context

Ruth Odinga is a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, a daughter of Kenya's first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and sister to the late Raila Odinga and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga. Her political career includes serving as the Deputy Governor of Kisumu County from 2013 to 2017. She was later elected as the Kisumu County Woman Representative in August 2022 on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket.

The Odinga family has a long-standing legacy in Kenyan politics, with Jaramogi Oginga Odinga being a key figure in the country's independence struggle. Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, was a central figure in Kenya's political landscape for decades, serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

While Ruth Odinga's introduction of her husband was a significant personal revelation, details about Nana Busia's background and their marriage have largely remained private. The duration of their marriage has been mentioned as 35 years in a past interview, but specific details are not widely public. The public introduction at such a high-profile event has, however, sparked considerable interest among Kenyans regarding this previously unpublicized aspect of her life.

What to Watch

The Odinga family continues to be a focal point in Kenyan politics. As the nation reflects on the legacy of Raila Odinga, attention may also turn to the roles of other family members, including Ruth Odinga, in shaping future political discourse and leadership in the country.

Evidence/Data Box

• Event: Funeral service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
• Date of Introduction: Saturday, October 19, 2025.
• Location: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, Bondo, Siaya County.
• Key Figure: Ruth Odinga, Kisumu County Woman Representative.
• Husband's Name: Nana Busia (Ghanaian).
• Ruth Odinga's Political Role: Former Deputy Governor of Kisumu County (2013-2017) and current Kisumu County Woman Representative (elected August 2022).