ODM leader Raila Odinga’s daughter Rosemary is adjusting to new life after losing her eyesight. Making her first appearance on Tuesday at the Raila Odinga Educational Centre, Rosemary said she will carry on with implementing projects in Kibera. She donated 60 sewing machines to the institution. The college will start enrolling women for tailoring courses in January.
Rosemary said:
Rosemary suffered a minor stroke, leading to her hospitalisation in South Africa in February last year. The illness affected her eyesight and forced her to withdraw from the Kibra parliamentary race last year.
Rosemary Odinga appears in public for first time since 2017, Opens Up on Going Blind #MichafukoMitaani
“I am still struggling to adapt to the new changes, having lost my sight during my illness. I will continue to do what my heart most desires – to empower women in our country,” pic.twitter.com/BM2jSuFXD5— Wish Fm (@Wishfmradio) November 28, 2018
In an interview, Rosemary said,
Rosemary has been off the social and political scene for quite some time. When asked about the handshake between Raila and President Uhuru Kenyatta, she said, “I have not been active in politics for a while but I think any initiative that works to unite Kenyans and promote economic development is welcome.” Women trained at the educational centre will get certificates upon completion of their courses.
Rosemary Odinga narrates her experience with Blindness after suffering Mild Stroke https://t.co/gh2iwIA0Zp pic.twitter.com/xsk35RWiGJ
— Sara wema (@WemaSara) November 28, 2018
Rosemary was accompanied by Chang Lee of I Love Africa Organisation. Kenyans wished Rosemary well and thanked her for her courage. “I love her courage and service to the community even after the set back of losing eyesight. We wish her long life,” a reader Docotolo commented on the website.
“Many whose hearts you have touched would have done anything so that you retain your eyesight. Just be strong. You can achieve a lot,” said Gema Sage. Jalaal Kafkaesque thanked Rosemary for her selfless service to the people. “Empowering our communities is divine, the multiplier effect lift families and generation out of poverty, Kudos for your compassion,” Kafkaesque said.