Nairobi Allocates Sh20 Million for Raila Odinga Monument

Nairobi County Assembly has allocated Sh20 million in its 2026/27 budget for the construction of a monument and statue honouring the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. 

The memorial will be built at the Supreme Court Roundabout along City Hall Way.

The funding is included in the Assembly’s 40th budget report and follows the approval of a special motion calling for a permanent memorial to one of Kenya’s most prominent political leaders.

The motion was sponsored by Nairobi West MCA John Rex Omolleh of the Orange Democratic Movement and received unanimous support from members of the Assembly. Omolleh said Raila’s decades of public service and political sacrifice deserved lasting recognition. He credited him with advancing democracy, expanding political freedoms and strengthening governance.

Omolleh also highlighted Raila’s contribution to infrastructure during his time as Minister for Roads and Public Works. He pointed to projects including the Thika Superhighway and Nairobi’s bypasses as examples of his leadership and long-term vision.

Although the original proposal identified Uhuru Park as the preferred location, the Assembly later agreed to build the monument at the Supreme Court Roundabout. The site, located in Nairobi’s civic district, was chosen for its prominence and symbolic significance.

The decision reflects Kenya’s practice of recognising national leaders through public monuments and landmarks. It also acknowledges Raila’s role in the country’s democratic development, from his involvement in the campaign for multiparty democracy to his service as Prime Minister and opposition leader.

Raila died in October last year while receiving treatment in India, bringing to an end a political career that spanned several decades and had a significant impact on Kenya’s political and social development. Following approval of the budget, the county executive is expected to begin planning the project in consultation with national government agencies. 

Once completed, the monument will become part of Nairobi’s public landmarks, commemorating Raila’s contribution to the country’s political history and democratic development.