Beryl who led a fairly private life, was a cherished member of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families.
In a Facebook post, the family described Beryl as a devoted mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai.
She was a sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, and Akinyi Wenwa, and sister-in-law to Dr. Anne Oburu, Dr. Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu.
“It is with a heavy heart, but in acceptance of the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms. We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”
The family described Beryl’s passing as leaving an “immense void” and emphasized their gratitude for her life and the positive influence she had on those around her.
Though she avoided the spotlight, Beryl was a distinguished professional.
She completed her Form Six (‘A’ Levels) studies in December 1972 and pursued dual careers as a teacher and lawyer.
She made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city.
Upon returning to Zimbabwe as a bona fide resident, she rebuilt her career and later served as Company Secretary of the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe.
In Kenya, Beryl continued her public service, serving as Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), having been formally appointed to the board in January 2020.
She was also known for her remarkable educational and social connections; during Oburu Oginga’s birthday celebration in October 2023, she revealed that she had been a classmate of former Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.