A Nairobi sculptor has captured the attention of Kenyans after unveiling a lifelike bronze statue of the late Raila Odinga, earning widespread praise for its striking resemblance and exceptional craftsmanship.
Mandela Cleophas Ondula unveiled the sculpture, titled The Enigma, as a tribute to the veteran politician.
Videos of the artwork that were seen by TNX Africa quickly circulated online, with many Kenyans applauding the level of detail and realism in the piece.
The latest sculpture is another milestone for the young artist, who has built a reputation for creating realistic bronze works depicting some of Kenya's most celebrated figures.
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Mandela works alongside his fiancée, Cheryl Nagawa, an accomplished artist who contributes to the creative process by refining artistic details and helping manage the studio's operations.
Their partnership has enabled them to execute complex commissions while maintaining the quality that has become synonymous with Mandela's work.
His growing portfolio includes sculptures of marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, former President Daniel arap Moi, former Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore, media personality Nick Ndeda and, most recently, the late Raila Odinga.
He has also produced several commissioned monuments and public artworks across the country.
Art runs in Mandela's family. He is the son of the late Luke Oshoto Ondula, one of Kenya's pioneering sculptors whose works remain among the country's most recognisable landmarks.
Luke Ondula created the iconic Tom Mboya statue on Moi Avenue in Nairobi, the Naked Boy statue outside the High Court in Nairobi and the lion sculptures at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum.
By following in his father's footsteps, Mandela is continuing a family legacy of preserving Kenya's history and celebrating its national heroes through bronze sculptures that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistry.