Professors Laban Ayiro and Anyang’ Nyong’o.
By Nyang’au Araka
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o held discussions with Daystar University Vice Chancellor Laban Ayiro regarding arrangements for an international conference commemorating the legacy of the late Raila Amolo Odinga.
The conversation centered on the upcoming RAO2026 Memorial Conference on Communication and Politics, set to take place in August 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.
The conference will examine Odinga’s impact on democracy, governance, and political communication within Kenya and throughout Africa.
Following the meeting, Prof. Nyong’o characterized the former Prime Minister as one of the most influential figures in Kenya’s democratic development.
“Few individuals in our national narrative have shaped Kenya’s democratic consciousness as significantly as the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga,” Nyong’o stated.
“His political journey, characterized by resilience, principled struggle and an unwavering dedication to social justice, left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but on the broader African democratic movement.”
Nyong’o highlighted that Odinga’s extensive political career offers valuable lessons for academics and policymakers studying democratic progress and leadership.
According to the governor, the examination of Odinga’s public life provides understanding into leadership under pressure, strategic communication, and the capacity to navigate intricate political transitions.
“His career serves as a model for decision-making under pressure and the disciplined dynamism necessary to remain true to enduring democratic principles,” Nyong’o remarked.
The RAO2026 conference will adopt the theme “Future-Proofing Democracy: Resilience, Adaptation and Opportunity.”
Organizers indicate it will gather academics, political leaders, researchers, policymakers and civil society representatives to assess the changing democratic landscape in Kenya and beyond.
Nyong’o explained that the event will function as a forum to contemplate Odinga’s lasting legacy while also addressing current challenges confronting democratic institutions.
“The gathering will offer a significant forum for reflection and dialogue on the enduring legacy of Raila Amolo Odinga and on the ongoing task before us: to deepen democracy, strengthen accountable governance, and nurture institutions capable of sustaining the aspirations of our people,” he stated.
Prof. Ayiro mentioned that the conference aims to foster serious academic and policy discussions regarding the future of democracy in Kenya and Africa.
“It was a privilege 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 an essential forum for scholars, leaders, policymakers and citizens to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga.”
Ayiro further explained that the discussions will also concentrate on reinforcing democratic systems and institutions capable of enduring political and social change.
Also attending the meeting were communications scholar Prof. Levy Obonyo, who chairs the conference council, along with Kisumu County Executive Committee Members John Awiti (Education) and George Okong’o (Finance), along with representatives from the county administration and Daystar University.
Nyong’o stressed that the pursuit of democratic renewal must remain an ongoing national effort.
“The pursuit of democratic renewal is not a single occurrence but a continuous intellectual and civic enterprise,” he said.