Oketch Salah emerged from humble yet prominent roots in Migori County to become a key figure in Kenyan business and politics. Best known as the self-proclaimed “adopted son” and personal aide to the late Raila Odinga, his story blends entrepreneurship, controversy, and political proximity.
Oketch Salah’s Early Life and Family Roots
Born in Migori, Oketch hails from a wealthy family led by his father, Abdi Salah, who owned the town’s first bakery and built its inaugural multi-story building in the 1970s.
The family flaunted assets like super bikes and a car, marking their status in the community.
Oketch attended Ombo Primary School and Kangeso Secondary School, though he left the latter under unclear circumstances; he speaks fluent Dholuo despite his Somali heritage.
Business Success in Gold Mining
Salah built his fortune through gold mining operations in Nyatike, Migori County. His company spearheaded community projects, including drilling eight boreholes in Osiri village to tackle water scarcity, cholera risks, and high water costs.
These initiatives earned local acclaim and underscored his role in Kenya’s expanding mining sector, fueled by family legacy and networks.
Close Ties to Raila Odinga
Oketch positioned himself as Raila Odinga’s trusted confidant, traveling with him on medical trips to Dubai and India during his final health battles.
Despite not being formally registered as a medical practitioner in Kenya, he assisted with treatments and stood in for Raila at events such as funerals.
He credits Raila with teaching him leadership, patriotism, and humility, mourning him as a father figure who embodied sacrifice.
Controversies and Public Scrutiny
Salah’s unverified claims of veterinary prowess—such as hippo brain surgeries and halting COVID in wildlife parks—sparked skepticism, often chalked up to raw “talent.” After Raila’s passing, Winnie Odinga publicly disavowed him, accusing him of exploiting family grief and inflating his closeness, to which Salah responded with restraint out of respect for Ida Odinga. Yet, endorsements from ODM stalwarts like Dr. Oburu Oginga highlight his lingering influence in post-Raila politics.
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