By Nyang’au Araka
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o met Daystar University Vice Chancellor Laban Ayiro to discuss preparations for an international conference honoring the legacy of the late Raila Amolo Odinga.
The meeting focused on the upcoming RAO2026 Memorial Conference on Communication and Politics, scheduled for August 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.
The conference will explore Odinga’s influence on democracy, governance, and political communication in Kenya and across Africa.
In a statement after the meeting, Prof. Nyong’o described the former Prime Minister as one of the most consequential figures in Kenya’s democratic history.
“Few figures in our national life have shaped the democratic imagination of Kenya as profoundly as the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga,” Nyong’o said.
“His political journey, marked by resilience, principled struggle and an unwavering commitment to social justice, left an indelible imprint not only on Kenya but on the wider African democratic project.”
Nyong’o noted that Odinga’s decades-long political career offers important lessons for scholars and policymakers studying democratic development and leadership.
According to the governor, the study of Odinga’s public life provides insights into leadership under pressure, strategic communication, and the ability to navigate complex political transitions.
“His career stands as a masterclass in decision-making under pressure and the disciplined dynamism required to remain faithful to enduring democratic principles,” Nyong’o said.
The RAO2026 conference will be held under the theme “Future-Proofing Democracy: Resilience, Adaptation and Opportunity.”
Organizers say it will bring together scholars, political leaders, researchers, policymakers and civil society actors to examine the evolving democratic landscape in Kenya and beyond.
Nyong’o said the gathering will serve as a platform to reflect on Odinga’s enduring legacy while also addressing contemporary challenges facing democratic institutions.
“The gathering will provide an important platform for reflection and dialogue on the enduring legacy of Raila Amolo Odinga and on the continuing task before us: to deepen democracy, strengthen accountable governance, and nurture institutions capable of sustaining the aspirations of our people,” he said.
Prof. Ayiro said the conference is intended to stimulate serious academic and policy conversations on the future of democracy in Kenya and Africa.
“It was an honor to consult with H.E. Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o on the forthcoming RAO2026 Memorial Conference on Communication and Politics,” Ayiro said.
The conference will provide a vital platform for scholars, leaders, policymakers and citizens to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga.”
Ayiro added that the discussions will also focus on strengthening democratic systems and institutions capable of withstanding political and social change.
Also present at the meeting were communications scholar Prof. Levy Obonyo, who chairs the conference council, as well as Kisumu County Executive Committee Members John Awiti (Education) and George Okong’o (Finance), alongside officials from the county government and Daystar University.
Nyong’o emphasized that the pursuit of democratic renewal must remain a continuous national endeavor.
“The pursuit of democratic renewal is not a singular event but a continuous intellectual and civic enterprise,” he said.
