Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday honoured his longtime political ally, the late Raila Odinga, in a deeply symbolic traditional gesture by delivering dozens of cattle to his Opoda Farm home in Bondo, Siaya county.
Reports indicated that Kalonzo brought with him about 150 cattle, a grand show of respect that underscored the depth of his admiration for the former Prime Minister.
Armed with a shield and spear, the former Vice President and his delegation — which included Kitui Senator Enock Wambua — walked into the Odinga homestead to chants of “Jowi! Jowi!”
The chant, meaning buffalo, is a traditional exclamation of valour, used to hail a great warrior in Luo culture.
Heads of cattle being driven to Raila Odinga’s Opoda Farm home in Bondo, Siaya county, by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s delegation to pay tribute to the late former Prime Minister, November 6, 2025. /FAITH MATETE
Their arrival marked what has become one of the most striking tributes to Raila, whose death on October 15 triggered an outpouring of grief and honour across the country and beyond.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and his delegation arrive at Raila odinga’s Opoda Farm home in Bondo to pay tribute to the former Prime Minister, November 6, 20205. /FAITH MATETE
In Luo customs, visiting the home of a deceased elder or great leader with cattle is part of a sacred ritual known as Tero Buru.
The ceremony’s purpose is to symbolically drive away evil spirits or misfortunes associated with death, while cleansing the home and the community.
The presence of cattle — particularly bulls — signifies that the departed was a highly respected, courageous, and influential figure.
Raila, who was laid to rest on October 19 after a state funeral attended by local and international dignitaries, has continued to draw tributes from across Kenya’s political divide.
