The county government of Kisumu is set to build a statue in commemoration of Kenya’s first Vice-President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
Announcing the move on Sunday during the Climax of Odinga’s Silver Anniversary, Kisumu county Governor Anyang Nyong’o said the move is aimed at keeping the future generation informed.
“Jaramogi’s life provides us with an opportunity to transform the society for the better,” said Nyong’o.
The governor wondered why some people were complaining of the billboards erected to mark the anniversary.
“I heard some youths complaining of the billboards; let me tell you that we will place a stature, so that those who walk in Kisumu are aware of the leaders who sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy today,” he said.
During the two-day event attended by key leaders in and out of government, Odinga’s bravery in championing for change was strongly pronounced.
He was hailed as a selfless individual who put the country first.
The anniversary saw many leaders join Odinga’s family in marking the day.
Among those who graced the occasion include, Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugine Wamalwa, Siaya governor Cornel Rasanga, Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Senators James Orengo (Siaya), Ochillo Ayacko (Migori), and Fred Outa (Kisumu).
Odinga died in January 20, 1994 aged 82 years.
Other former leaders who have their statues erected in top cities include.
Tom Mboya
Erected 42 years later after he was assassinated as he stepped out of Channa’s Chemist, a few metres from where his statue stands.
The statue is estimated to have costed the government Ksh20 million.
Dedan Kimathi
His statue was unveiled on August 15, 2007 to mark 50 years since his death.
Kimathi is known for his armed struggle for Kenya’s independence. He is believed to have been captured, hanged, and buried in an anonymous grave inside Kamiti Prison.
Jomo Kenyatta
The founding father of the Kenyan republic’s statue was erected at Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) in 1973.
It was unveiled in the same year when KICC was opened to mark 10 years of independence.
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