The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) has announced the temporary closure of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, to allow construction and renovation works at the historic site.
In a notice issued on Wednesday, August 11, 2026, NMK said the mausoleum was closed to the public on Monday, July 20, and will remain inaccessible until Friday, October 30, 2026.
The museum body advised members of the public and tourists to avoid visiting the site during the construction period because they will not be allowed access.
“The National Museums of Kenya wishes to inform the general public and all our esteemed visitors that the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum has been closed for construction works since Monday, July 20, 2026 until Friday, October 30, 2026,” NMK stated.
Construction of Raila Odinga Mausoleum
The closure comes as construction gets underway on a new mausoleum dedicated to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died earlier in 2026.
The new memorial is being constructed at the same site in Bondo, Siaya County, where the existing Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum stands.
Construction work began on July 20 and is being undertaken by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). The project is expected to be completed by October 30.
The government has allocated KSh30 million towards construction of the new memorial and rehabilitation of the existing Jaramogi mausoleum.
New Mausoleum to Have Pentagonal Design
The new Raila Odinga Mausoleum will have a pentagonal design, differing from the hexagonal structure built for Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in 1995.
The design is intended to symbolise strength, unity and collective purpose, reflecting the legacy associated with the former prime minister and longtime political leader.
The expanded memorial site is also expected to provide facilities that will preserve and promote Kenya’s political history.
Among the planned facilities are a research centre, library, digital archives and an amphitheatre.
The National Museums of Kenya will be involved in managing some of these facilities once the project is completed.
Historic Site in Bondo
The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum is one of the historical sites managed by the National Museums of Kenya.
Located in Bondo, the site attracts visitors interested in Kenya’s political history, particularly the legacy of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a prominent figure in the country’s independence struggle.
The addition of Raila Odinga’s memorial is expected to further transform the site into an important centre for preserving Kenya’s political and cultural heritage.
However, visitors will have to wait until construction and rehabilitation works are completed before they can access the mausoleum again.
Closure Dates for Visitors
According to NMK, the closure began on July 20, 2026, and is scheduled to end on October 30, 2026.
Members of the public planning visits to the historic Bondo site have therefore been advised to postpone their trips until the construction works are complete.
The development marks a major expansion of the memorial site and is expected to create a permanent space for preserving the history and legacy of two of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum been closed?
The mausoleum has been closed to allow construction and rehabilitation works at the site.
When will the mausoleum reopen?
NMK says the site is expected to reopen after construction works are completed on October 30, 2026.
Where is the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum located?
The mausoleum is located in Bondo, Siaya County.
How much has the government allocated to the project?
The government has released KSh30 million for construction of the new memorial and rehabilitation of the existing Jaramogi mausoleum.
Who is constructing the new Raila Odinga Mausoleum?
The Kenya Defence Forces is carrying out the construction works.