The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) has officially invited bids from qualified contractors for the construction of the proposed Raila Odinga mausoleum, marking a significant step forward in preserving the legacy of Kenya’s second prime minister.
In a tender notice issued Tuesday, NMK called on eligible and reputable contractors to participate in the Ksh30 million project, which aims to honor the historical contributions of the late opposition leader who passed away earlier this year.
The ambitious project encompasses two key components: the construction of a new mausoleum dedicated to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and renovation works at the nearby Jaramogi Mausoleum, the final resting place of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
“The National Museums of Kenya invites bids from eligible, reputable and qualified contractors to participate in the tender for the Construction of Proposed Raila Odinga Mausoleum and Renovation of Jaramogi Mausoleum in Bondo Sub-County, Siaya County,” the notice stated.
Architectural Vision
The mausoleum’s design features a striking circular structure that will serve as the symbolic and spatial centerpiece of the memorial precinct. Far from being a standalone monument, the circular core has been conceived as an organizing anchor for the entire landscape, shaping visitor circulation, orientation, and experience.
Radiating outward from this central structure will be a looping network of access roads and pedestrian pathways that curve through the site in continuous flow, creating an immersive visitor experience.
The facility will house a research center, library, digital archives, and an amphitheater, all managed in partnership with the National Museums of Kenya. Green spaces and open grounds will complement the architectural enhancements, creating a contemplative environment befitting the memorial’s purpose.
Location and Legacy
The mausoleum will be situated adjacent to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where the late Raila Odinga was laid to rest. This proximity underscores the intertwined legacies of father and son in Kenya’s political history.
The memorial is designed to preserve and promote Raila Odinga’s multifaceted legacy: his decades-long struggle against one-party rule, his instrumental role in delivering the 2010 constitution, and his dedication to public service. It will also serve as a physical symbol of his various peace pacts and political transitions that shaped modern Kenya.
Timeline and Procurement
Interested bidders have until June 25, 2026, to submit their applications. Tender documents are available at the National Museums of Kenya headquarters in Nairobi or can be downloaded free of charge from the institution’s website.
Following the submission deadline, tenders will be opened and evaluated, with construction expected to commence once a contractor is selected and awarded the project. The government has committed to beginning construction before the end of June 2026.
The advertisement of the tender marks the formal beginning of the procurement process for what is expected to become a significant national monument and tourist attraction in Siaya County.
