Raila Odinga honors Moi with powerful Luo dirge and chant

ByEnigma 808

On 12 February 2020, at the state burial of former President Daniel Arap Moi, Raila Odinga moved mourners with his tribute. He performed a Luo dirge, waved a fly whisk above Moi’s casket, and chanted “Jowi! Jowi! Jowi!” This phrase, meaning buffalo in Luo, symbolizes strength, courage, and respect, and is reserved for leaders and heroes.

Raila’s actions followed traditional Luo funeral customs, using the fly whisk, or orengo, as a sign of mourning and respect. The “Jowi” chant, linked to his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, honors influential people. It acknowledges greatness, leadership, and the fleeting nature of life, connecting modern events with cultural heritage.

Raila’s use of “Jowi” bridges Kenya’s ethnic and political divides, representing a blend of tradition and respect. It symbolizes not just mourning but the recognition of a life that made a lasting impact.

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    Besides writing and being a content creator, Enigma 808 sometimes likes to watch paint dry on walls, listening to ASMR while timing snails racing. Such is life.