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Creator of viral Raila Odinga portrait speaks out on copyright abuse

Renowned Kenyan sketch artist Collins Omondi Okello has appealed for recognition and appreciation following the widespread use of his now-viral Raila Odinga tribute artwork, which has been shared across social media and used for commercial purposes without his consent.

In a heartfelt post shared on Saturday, October 18, 2025, the Kisumu-based artist expressed disappointment that individuals and businesses were using his creation without crediting him or retaining his watermark.

Collins, who first gained national attention a decade ago after producing another famous portrait of Raila Odinga, said the current situation reflects the challenges many creatives face in protecting their intellectual property.

“I have received so many concerns about the widespread use of my artwork for commercial purposes. It’s disheartening, but this is the reality of creatives,” he wrote.

“People can easily crop out watermarks or fail to acknowledge the artist.”

Collins explained that his latest piece, depicting Raila’s face rising majestically above the clouds, with a smaller image of the former Prime Minister raising his fist, was a personal tribute to a man he deeply admired.

He clarified that the artwork was not intended for profit, adding that even the few T-shirts he produced were made only due to overwhelming public demand.

“My main aim was to honour a global icon who shaped our political landscape. This was never meant for commercial purposes,” he stated.

Despite his frustration, the self-taught artist urged Kenyans to respect and support local talent by acknowledging original creators when sharing their work. He also invited well-wishers to support him financially as a gesture of appreciation.

Speaking to Business Daily, Collins recalled the highlight of his career, meeting Raila Odinga in 2015 when the former Prime Minister personally invited him to Nairobi to receive one of his portraits.

“Meeting him was an honour. He was charismatic, humble, and inspiring. The publicity from that portrait gave my art a huge boost,” he said.

Collins revealed that some of his pieces were commissioned by Raila’s ardent supporters, while others were gifts created purely out of admiration.

He recounted that Raila not only paid for his artwork but also covered his travel and accommodation expenses, a gesture he still cherishes.“

I had considered it a gift, but he went beyond by compensating me generously,” he added.