Fidel Castro Makarios Odhiambo Odinga
Early Life & Background
Fidel Odinga was born in 1973 as the firstborn son of Raila Odinga and Ida Odinga, a prominent Kenyan political family. He spent parts of his early life in Nairobi and the western Kenya region, growing up in a household deeply involved in national politics.
Education & Career
Fidel attended Consolata Primary School in Westlands, Nairobi, and later Mbeji Academy in Siaya County for his secondary education. He pursued further studies abroad, spending time in India and later in Washington D.C., United States, before returning to Kenya ahead of the 2002 general elections.
While he did not hold a public political office, he was considered a key figure behind the scenes in his family’s political network and had a reputation for a calm, measured presence.
Personal Life
Fidel Odinga was known among friends and family as approachable and gentle-minded, despite being physically very tall and imposing. He was married twice: first to Veronica Wanjiru Ng’ang’a (later divorced) and subsequently to Lwam Getachew Bekele from Eritrea, with whom he had a son.
He had interests in sports and social circles but stayed largely out of the limelight compared with his father’s political career.
Passing & Legacy
Fidel Odinga died on 4 January 2015 under circumstances reported as him being found in his home. He was 41 years old. His death was met with wide public sympathy and tributes, especially from his family, who emphasised his kindness, love for family and the warmth he brought to those who knew him.
His legacy is often described in terms of the void his absence left in his family and community, and how his life continues to be remembered in memorial events and family recollections.
Quick Facts
- Name: Fidel Castro Makarios Odhiambo Odinga
- Born: 1973
- Died: 4 January 2015 (aged 41)
- Parents: Raila Odinga & Ida Odinga
- Sibling order: Eldest of four children
- Spouse(s): Veronica Wanjiru Ng’ang’a (first) • Lwam Getachew Bekele (second)
- Children: One (son)
- Notable for: Eldest son of a major Kenyan political family; behind-the-scenes figure and remembered for his character