On October 18, 2025, hundreds of mourners collapsed at the Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu during the public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The large turnout overwhelmed emergency response teams.
Key Details:
Causes of collapses: Grief, intense heat, dehydration, and overcrowding.
Emergency response: Kenya Red Cross and St. John Ambulance administered first aid, used stretchers and oxygen tanks, and transported critically affected mourners to hospitals in Kisumu town.
Attendance: Thousands of mourners, including visitors from Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, and Kakamega counties, queued from early morning, with some camping overnight.
Safety measures: Water points were set up, and police and military personnel created access pathways for medical teams.
Despite the challenges, the viewing continued, allowing mourners to pay respects. The exercise was part of the national mourning program leading to Raila Odinga’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County.
Community Reaction:
Emotional tributes, songs, and prayers marked the event.
Officials urged patience and cooperation to ensure the safety of all attendees.