Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe has described the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as a true leader and a steadfast champion of Pan-Africanism.
Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Association between the Kitui County Government and Kenya Utalii College, Governor Malombe said he will personally attend the memorial ceremony at Nyayo Stadium alongside other governors to honor the late ODM leader.
“We have a lot of respect for Baba. He was a true leader, a visionary, and a strong believer in devolution. We shall join other leaders at Nyayo to celebrate his legacy,” Governor Malombe said.
During the event, the Governor announced that Kitui County has allocated 26 acres of land in Tiva, 11 kilometers from Kitui Town in Lower Yatta, for the construction of a Kenya Utalii College Campus. The institution is expected to position Kitui as a gateway to international careers in hospitality and tourism.
Kenya Utalii College Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Rachuonyo, hailed the partnership as a milestone in expanding hospitality and tourism training beyond Nairobi.
“This Memorandum of Understanding will leverage our strengths in hospitality and tourism training to support Kitui’s development goals. The benefits will include enhancing skills, promoting innovation, and stimulating the local economy,” said Mr. Rachuonyo.
He further revealed that the Kitui Utalii Campus will be up and running within six months, with at least 10 per cent of training slots and employment opportunities reserved for Kitui residents, in line with the county’s inclusivity policy.
At the same time, Governor Malombe sent his heartfelt condolences to Raila Odinga’s family, friends, and Kenyans following the passing of the former Prime Minister.
“We mourn a hero of democracy and a father of devolution. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.
Raila Odinga was widely celebrated as one of the strongest voices for devolution — a system he championed during the constitutional reforms that led to Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. His advocacy for equitable resource distribution and empowerment of county governments laid the foundation for leaders like Dr. Malombe to drive localized development.
In the Lower Eastern region, Raila maintained close ties with Kitui leaders, including former Governor Charity Ngilu and Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, with whom he worked under the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition. His consistent support for counties like Kitui helped advance projects in infrastructure, education, and governance.
Governor Malombe’s tribute underscores Raila’s enduring impact on Kenya’s political and developmental landscape.
