Renowned Kenyan designer Bolo Bespoke has shared the deep emotions he experienced while creating the elegant dress worn by Mama Ida Odinga during both the state funeral and home burial of her late husband, Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, the celebrated tailor opened up about how the assignment was unlike any he had undertaken in his decade-long career describing it as a project filled with grief, prayer, and painful reflection.
“It has truly been an honour dressing you, MAMA. My heart is heavy. Rest in peace, Baba Raila Odinga,” Bolo began. “Mama… In all these years I’ve dressed you, I never imagined a day would come when I’d have to dress you for Baba Raila Odinga’s burial.”
Bolo, known for designing iconic looks for Kenya’s elite, revealed that every moment of creating the outfit carried deep emotional weight.
“In my 10 years as a fundi, I have never tailored a dress with so much pain,” he confessed. “Every stitch carried a story, a prayer, a tear, a memory. Too much was running through my mind, too many questions left unanswered. Why, God, why did it have to be Baba?”
The designer’s post struck a chord with fans and followers, many of whom praised his craftsmanship and sincerity. His words not only reflected the nation’s collective grief but also offered a glimpse into the personal bond and respect he shared with the Odinga family.