By D, KNA
A section of religious leaders in Homa Bay county on Sunday led residents in planting trees as a tribute for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In Oyugis town, the Homa Bay County Secretary of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) Abdul Masud led the residents in the tree planting to honour the fallen political hero.
Masud planted a tree variety locally referred to as Kang’o. The Jaramogi family farm in Bondo is named after the Kang’o tree which is an indigenous hard wood. The tree is commonly used by the Luo community to construct traditional granaries and cattle sheds.
Masud said the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was an environmentalist and the tree planting ceremony was therefore befitting.
“I have decided to plant Kang’o because it is the farm where Raila grew up. It is the same place where he is being buried today,” Masud said.
He said the tree also symbolized the resilient spirit of Raila in fighting for democratic space in Kenya.
“Kang’o produces a hard wood used for building durable structures. It symbolizes the persistence Raila showed in fighting for reforms in this county,” Masud said.
He called on residents to mourn Raila peacefully.
“Peace is a very important aspect of live. Let my fellow citizens know that we cannot achieve the desired economic growth if we don’t maintain peace.,” Masud said. He urged residents to plant trees in honour of Raila.
In Oyugis market, traders eulogized Raila with songs and procession. They sang as they blew whistles in the market.