Kenya – News Analysis India

India Mourns Loss of Ex-Kenyan PM Raila Odinga, Cherished Friend

News Analysis India — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound sorrow following the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in Koothattukulam, Kerala. Odinga reportedly suffered a heart attack during his morning walk. PM Modi fondly remembered Odinga as a “cherished friend of India,” highlighting their personal connection that began during Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat. Odinga, who was in Kerala for specialized Ayurvedic treatment, collapsed unexpectedly and was transported to Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre. Despite immediate efforts, he could not be revived. His body has since been moved to Deva Matha Hospital in Koothattukulam. In a heartfelt tribute, PM Modi shared on social media that he had the privilege of knowing Odinga closely for years and noted Odinga’s “special affection for India, our culture, values and ancient wisdom.” He further elaborated on Odinga’s admiration for India’s traditional medicine systems, influenced by their positive impact on his daughter’s health, and acknowledged Odinga’s significant role in strengthening India-Kenya relations. The Prime Minister extended his deepest sympathies to Odinga’s family, friends, and the people of Kenya. Odinga had been in Koothattukulam for six days with his family, undergoing treatment and maintaining a routine of morning walks. Local officials confirmed the fatal heart attack occurred around 6:30 a.m. during his walk. Odinga was a dominant force in Kenyan politics for over four decades, serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, a period critical for national reconciliation and constitutional advancements. Renowned for his powerful oratory and deep connection with the populace, he was instrumental in shaping Kenya’s democratic landscape. His involvement in the power-sharing agreement following the 2007–08 post-election violence was pivotal in fostering dialogue and reform. Odinga, a long-time opposition leader and head of the Orange Democratic Movement, contested multiple presidential elections, consistently remaining a prominent national figure. His distinguished career was characterized by both intense political contests and a steadfast commitment to an inclusive political system. Kenyan Embassy officials in New Delhi have been alerted and are collaborating with Kerala authorities for the repatriation of his remains. Local leaders and members of the Kenyan diaspora have conveyed their shock and grief.

Speeches at the UN: What Leaders of 6 Small Nations Said That Went Viral

News Analysis India — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

At the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), several countries delivered speeches. While U.S. President Donald Trump’s speech was heard by millions, speeches from several smaller nations also garnered significant attention. The speeches of these countries went viral on the UN’s YouTube page.

The speeches from Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia, Kenya, Thailand, Nigeria, South Korea, and Colombia were widely heard. Discussions at the UN covered global development, peace, and international justice, among other topics.

Thailand: The foreign minister of Thailand, a country frequently visited by Indian travelers, delivered a well-received speech at the UN. The speech by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeo was viewed by 191,000 people. He highlighted the impact of challenges like the Ukraine war, the Gaza crisis, and climate change on ordinary people. He emphasized women’s participation, global cooperation, and the peaceful resolution of the Cambodian border dispute. He also stated that Thailand would always stand for peace.

Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Sachet’ Arrives in Mombasa, Strengthening India-Kenya Ties

News Analysis India — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Sachet’ arrived in Mombasa, Kenya, on Wednesday, September 17th, for a four-day visit. The purpose of this trip is to enhance maritime cooperation between India and Kenya and to further the shared vision of a secure sea.

During the visit, the Indian Coast Guard and the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) will engage in various activities. These include joint exercises, capacity building programs, pollution control demonstrations, sports competitions, and joint yoga sessions. These activities are designed to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between the two countries, and to improve relations.

Joint exercises will be conducted between the armed forces of both countries. At the end of the visit, a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) will be held at sea, in which the armed forces of both countries will practice together to improve their ability to work together effectively in real-world situations. The ‘Sachet’s’ visit to Mombasa symbolizes the strengthening relationship between India and Kenya, and is part of efforts to increase maritime security and cooperation between the two nations.

The visit reflects India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy, under which India is working with countries in the Indian Ocean and Africa to promote maritime security, trade security, and the development of the blue economy.

Following Mombasa, the Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Sachet’ will head towards Cape Town, South Africa. This is an indication of India’s commitment to working with like-minded countries to create a secure and prosperous maritime future. The ship ‘Sachet’ is an important vessel that has been involved in various humanitarian and security missions. It plays a vital role in maritime security, search and rescue operations. India is continuously enhancing its military capabilities, as well as improving defense relations with other countries.

21 Killed in Bus Accident in Kenya After Funeral

News Analysis India — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A tragic bus accident in southwestern Kenya has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people. The bus was carrying passengers returning from a funeral when it plunged into a ravine. According to police reports, the vehicle was traveling from Kakamega, a western city, towards Kisumu. The accident occurred when the driver lost control of the bus while approaching a roundabout at high speed. Among the deceased are 10 women, 10 men, and a 10-year-old girl. Road accidents are common in Kenya and the broader East African region due to factors like narrow, poorly maintained roads and speeding. A separate bus crash in Naivasha on Thursday claimed nine lives.