English Premier League giants Arsenal FC have paid tribute to the late Kenyan statesman and Gor Mahia Patron Raila Odinga by sending a commemorative piece of memorabilia recognising his well-known support for the North London club.
The tribute was received in Nairobi on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, by Philip Etale, who collected the parcel on behalf of the former Prime Minister and leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Speaking after receiving the package, Etale expressed his appreciation to the club, noting that as an Arsenal fan himself, it was an honour to accept the recognition on behalf of the departed leader.
Special Tribute from Arsenal
The commemorative item consists of a mounted photograph capturing the English Premier League clash between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC played on January 8, 2026, which ended in a 0–0 draw.
Engraved on the piece was a message from the club that read:
“Arsenal remembers the Rt Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga.”
Etale revealed that he plans to present the tribute to Raila’s family, led by his widow Ida Odinga.
“This parcel I have just received today, and I think it was sent in January and could have been delayed by the post office which may have failed to notify our office,” Etale said in a video shared on his social media pages.
“I will look for Mama Ida Odinga to give her the gift which was sent to our hero and party leader, Raila Odinga,” he added while thanking Arsenal for remembering the Kenyan political icon.
Raila’s Passion for Arsenal
Raila was widely known for his love of Arsenal and frequently shared photos of himself wearing the club’s jerseys while celebrating their victories at his home.
Over the years, he also travelled to England several times to watch the Gunners live, including a memorable visit to Emirates Stadium alongside his children, Winnie Odinga and Raila Odinga Jr.
The veteran Kenyan politician passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in India. His support for Arsenal made him one of the most recognisable high-profile fans of the club in Africa.
Arsenal’s gesture has therefore been widely viewed as a symbolic recognition of the late leader’s enduring passion for football and his long-standing loyalty to the club.
