President Kenyatta leads Kenyans in mourning Sarah Obama

By Mourice Seretta

President Uhuru Kenyatta has condoled with the Obama family following the death of Mama Sarah Onyango Obama.

Mama Sarah, who is the third wife of the paternal grandfather of former US President Barack Obama, died Monday morning in Kisumu.

In his message of comfort, the President mourned the Obama family matriarch as an icon of family values and a philanthropist whose contribution to the progress of the Kenyan nation shall be dearly missed.

“The passing away of Mama Sarah is a big blow to our nation. We’ve lost a strong, virtuous woman. A matriarch who held together the Obama family and was an icon of family values,” the President eulogised.

Mama Sarah Obama will be remembered by many for her philanthropic work especially in her Nyang’oma Kogelo home in Siaya County where she initiated several community development projects.

“She was a loving and celebrated philanthropist who graciously shared the little she had with the less fortunate in her community,” the President mourned Mama Sarah, 99, who passed away while receiving treatment at a Kisumu hospital.

The President wished the Obama family God’s grace as they mourn their departed matriarch.

On his part, Deputy President William Ruto said Kenya has lost a charismatic, self-determined and formidable figure who played an instrumental part in supporting and promoting the welfare of the vulnerable in the society.

“Mama Sarah Onyango Obama broke barriers, went against the grain and helped foster confidence in women leadership. She was transformational and fearless. We will miss her warmth and signature smiles that inspired many of us. Our commiserations to the family and their loved ones during this painful time of mourning. Rest In Peace, Mama Sarah.” Ruto said.

ODM Laeder Raila Odinga offered that in the passing of Mama Sarah Obama, the country have lost a matriarch who lived ahead of her time.

Raila said that Mama Sarah single-handedly kept the family going long after the husband departed.

“In between, she became a symbol of the Resilience and Confidence of the African woman with a unique capacity to face the challenges of life. She utilized her grandson President Barack Obama’s rise to promote the education of girls and fight social ills through her Foundation. Mama Ida and I pass our sincere condolences to the Obama family.” Raila said.

ANC Party leader Musalia Mudavadi also expressed hios heartfelt condolences to the family of former US President Barack Obama upon the passing on of his grandmother, Mama Sarah Obama.

“She will be remembered for her love for education & sports as well as for her tireless efforts to uplift the lives of the vulnerable members of her community, especially widows and orphans. May her soul rest in peace.” Mudavadi said.

Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka also condoled with the family.

“To the entire family of President Barack Obama, I pass my heartfelt condolences following the passing on of Mama Sarah Obama.May our Lord rest her soul in eternal peace.” Kalonzo said.

KANU Party Chairman Gideon Moi said he received with sadness the news of the passing on of Mama Sarah Obama earlier today.

He said Mama Sarah embodied the resilience of the African woman who cherished the values that defined our collective aspirations as a society.

“She was a revered matriarch within her community, throughout the country and across the borders to the international stage for her unrivalled humility. We deeply cherish her memory and the legacy of transformation through mentorship that she has left behind. I therefore extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends, and pray that they find comfort and solace in the Lord to endure this loss.” The Baringo Senator said.

Several other leaders across the political divide have also condoled with the Obama family.

Kenyans in their numbers also took to social media to convey their condolences.