Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka turned heads on Thursday after gifting 100 cows to the family of the late Raila Odinga during a Tero Buru ceremony at Bondo Farm in Siaya County.
The gesture, which drew widespread attention, carried deep cultural and symbolic meaning within Luo traditions of mourning and honour.
A Symbolic Gesture of Solidarity
Kalonzo’s presentation of 100 cows was widely viewed as a profound expression of solidarity, respect, and friendship toward the Odinga family. In Luo culture, cattle symbolize wealth, unity, and goodwill—values that extend beyond material generosity.
His offering was seen not only as a gesture of condolence but also as a tribute to Raila Odinga’s lasting political and social legacy in Kenya.
The Tero Buru, performed after burial, is a traditional cleansing ritual marking the deceased’s passage into the ancestral realm. The ceremony often features songs, dances, and a procession of cattle, signifying communal strength and continuity.
The Cultural Power of Cattle
Among the Luo, cattle hold a revered place in social and spiritual life. They are central to key rites such as marriage, dowry, reconciliation, and funerals, acting as a link between the living and their ancestors.
During mourning rituals like Tero Buru, the presence of cows represents purification, communal support, and renewed family unity. The act is believed to bring peace to the spirit of the departed and comfort to the bereaved, affirming that life endures beyond loss.
Preserving Tradition in Modern Times
The colourful ceremony in Bondo highlighted the Luo community’s commitment to preserving traditional values amid modern change. Elders present at the event underscored that such customs remind younger generations of the importance of respect, identity, and togetherness.
By offering the herd, Kalonzo Musyoka not only honoured Raila Odinga’s memory but also reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Luo cultural practices.
As the cattle grazed across Bondo Farm, they stood as a living symbol of respect, friendship, and cultural continuity—a bridge between generations and a reminder of how tradition continues to shape expressions of empathy and unity in Kenyan society.










