𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒: A delegation from the Namibian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban and Rural Development and Land Reforms, currently in Kenya for a benchmarking visit, today signed the condolence book of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga at Parliament Buildings.
The team, led by Committee Chairperson Hon. Elifas Dingara, paid a heartfelt tribute to the former Prime Minister, who passed away on October 15, 2025, while receiving treatment in India.
Hon. Dingara described Raila Odinga as a great African statesman who inspired unity across the continent. “You were a true son of Africa, a man of courage and wisdom, and the only African leader who brought the people of Kenya and Africa together,” he wrote in part of his condolence message.
The Namibian delegation expressed solidarity with the people of Kenya during this difficult period, noting that Namibia joins Kenya in celebrating the life of a visionary leader who dedicated himself to democracy and justice.
The committee is in Kenya to learn from the country’s experiences in governance and decentralization. The benchmarking visit aims to help the lawmakers assess strategies and best practices that can enhance their oversight role and address challenges related to decentralization in Namibia.
Earlier, while welcoming the delegation to Parliament, Hon. Martha Wangari (Gilgil), who is also a member of the Speaker’s Panel, gave the group a detailed overview of Kenya’s bicameral parliamentary system.
She explained the distinct roles of the National Assembly and the Senate in legislation, oversight, and representation. Hon. Wangari also engaged the visitors in a question-and-answer session on devolution, governance, gender, and leadership.
During their visit, the Namibian lawmakers will hold a series of joint meetings with several Senate Departmental Committees to exchange experiences and discuss ways to strengthen oversight in various sectors.
Their visit will begin with discussions alongside the Committees on Agriculture and Livestock, and Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation, focusing on mandates and best oversight practices.
They will also meet the Senate Standing Committee on Devolution to examine the relationship between the National and county governments, and to share experiences on devolved governance.
The delegation is scheduled to attend the Senate’s afternoon sitting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, to observe parliamentary proceedings.
