Kisii: A soapstone artefact depicting the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s cycle of life is awaiting delivery to his family in Bondo after his untimely death before receiving it. The intricate piece, carved from Kisii’s famous soapstone, captures the key stages of Raila’s life, from birth to leadership, in a sequence of symbolic images skillfully ingrained on the mineral rock. The artefact, which took between three to four months to complete, is currently displayed at the Kisii Soapstone Art and Craft Centre in Nyabigege Shopping Centre, Tabaka Ward, Kisii County.
According to Kenya News Agency, the centre’s director, Daniel Ombasa Apepo, stated that the artwork was completed two weeks ago and was originally intended as a gift for Raila. ‘The crafting did not anticipate his death; it was meant to allow him to reflect on his life through art,’ he said. Expressing regret that Raila passed away before receiving the gift, Apepo said he still hopes to deliver it to the Odinga family, possibly through local leaders such as Dr Fred Matiang’i.
He explained the symbolism engraved on the over 5kg artefact: a baby representing Raila’s early life, a book signifying his education, a football symbolising his youth and sporting passion, and a heart denoting his love life and marriage. Other features include a warrior with a shield and arrow depicting leadership and courage, while chains symbolise his years in detention. A hammer and whisk represent authority, and a hand symbolises his lifelong pursuit of peace, particularly the historic handshake with his political rivals.
‘Raila always believed that the country was greater than any individual. This artefact will help future generations and visitors understand his life and legacy in a nutshell,’ said Apepo. He added that he was inspired to create the piece out of admiration for Raila’s lifelong struggle for democracy, justice, and constitutional reforms. Apepo urged other leaders to emulate Raila’s spirit of selflessness and patriotism rather than pursuing personal gain.
The director noted that ‘cycle of life’ artefacts rank among the third-best-selling pieces at his workshop, alongside other popular works such as ‘The Heroes Capture’ and the ‘Burning Frame.’ Apepo also showcased another soapstone carving depicting a family of giraffes, symbolizing Raila’s father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his family. He explained that Jaramogi often described himself as a giraffe, a creature known for its vision and ability to see far, a trait he said Raila inherited.
‘The giraffe is visionary and sees beyond the horizon. Raila must have followed in his father’s footsteps, truly a family of leaders,’ he remarked. Apepo concluded by expressing heartfelt condolences to the Odinga family and the nation, describing Raila as a visionary leader whose legacy will live on through art and history.