Gor Mahia Fans Gather in Kisumu to Honor Raila Odinga
Hundreds of Gor Mahia fans remained gathered at the Kisumu Sports Ground Tuesday morning, awaiting coordinated departure to Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, where they plan to pay their last respects at the grave of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga — the long-time patron of the club.
Supporters from Kenya were joined by fellow Gor Mahia fans who travelled from Uganda and Tanzania, underscoring the regional influence Raila commanded within the football fraternity. Many of the visiting fans arrived in Kisumu overnight, linking up with local supporters at the Sports Ground, where an emotional atmosphere has continued to build throughout the day.
"We came from Kampala because Raila was more than a politician — he was a patron, a supporter and a brother to East African football," one Ugandan supporter said.
Regional Unity in Mourning
Club colours dominated the venue, with green and white jerseys, flags and scarves forming a striking visual backdrop. Groups from Kampala, Mwanza, Bukoba, Jinja, Busia and Nairobi mingled freely, sharing songs, chants and emotional tributes dedicated to Raila. Some fans carried banners bearing the words "Baba Our Patron" and "Farewell Our Leader," while others held laminated portraits of Odinga.
Organisers say the convoy will depart once final security and crowd-control measures are confirmed. Multiple buses, private vehicles and motorbikes are lined up, ready to move in a massive unified procession. Police officers and county askaris have been deployed around the Sports Ground to ensure order, with officers continuously briefing the crowd on safety protocols.
Raila's Legacy in East African Football
Speaking at the venue, several fans described Raila not just as a political icon but as a father figure to Gor Mahia. They credited him with supporting the club through difficult seasons, attending matches, rallying fans and helping strengthen the team's identity. His influence extended beyond borders, which explains the arrival of fans from neighbouring countries.
Similar sentiments echoed across the field, with fans from Tanzania explaining that Raila's connection to Gor Mahia created a bond that transcended national boundaries and made them feel part of the club's spirit.
Community Response and Preparations
The gathering at the Kisumu Sports Ground continues to grow, with local businesses pausing normal activity as crowds spill over into adjacent streets. Vendors are distributing water, food and refreshments, while community elders and club officials are giving briefings and calming emotional supporters.
Authorities along the Kisumu–Bondo highway are preparing for heavy traffic once the convoy departs. Road marshals have been placed at key junctions, and emergency response teams are on standby to manage any incidents along the route.
The journey to Kang'o ka Jaramogi is expected to be a symbolic final act of unity for Gor Mahia supporters, reflecting Raila Odinga's lasting relationship with the club and the wider football community. Organisers say they expect thousands of supporters to join the Bondo procession once departure is announced.
Until then, hundreds of fans — including contingents from Uganda and Tanzania — remain at the Kisumu Sports Ground, united in grief, waiting to honour the memory of their patron.
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