Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has written a lovely birthday message to his wife Ida Odinga.
Taking to his social media accounts, Raila celebrated with his wife, describing her as the pillar of the family.
“Being married to you for five decades has brought me great joy, and celebrating this milestone with your birthday was awesome.
Mama Ida Odinga, please accept my heartfelt gratitude for being not only the love of my life, but also the bedrock and pillar of our family,” he said.
The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and Ida’s birthday on Thursday, August 24, at the Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi.
Further, entertaining the guests were celebrated Ohangla singer Prince Indah and Esther Akoth alias Akothee.
Raila and Ida got married on September 1, 1973, and have four children.
The opposition chief met Ida when she was a student at the University of Nairobi.
During that time, Raila was working as an employee of the university’s Department of Engineering.
Also Read: Oparanya: From Little-Known MP to Powerful Raila’s Pointman
Birthday messages to Ida Odinga
Raila’s presidential running mate in the 2022 elections, Martha Karua celebrated Ida saying she has contributed immensely to the nation and humanity.
“Happy birthday Ida Odinga, may you have many happy returns. Your service to the nation and humanity is much appreciated,” said Karua.
Secretary General Thirdway Alliance Kenya Fredrick Okango thanked Raila and Ida for their efforts.
“Thank you, so much and Happy birthday mama Ida Odinga. You are a gracious lady; we also thank Baba Raila Odinga too for you. May this day bring countless happiness and endless joy and live with peace and serenity. Happy Birthday Mama,” he said.
Also Read: TSC Announces Promotion of 36,000 Teachers and Application Deadline
Journalist Abuga Makori also stated that Kenya is blessed to have a mother like Ida Odinga
“Happy Birthday, may you blow many candles. Your courage, resilience and perseverance is a manifestation that women can play a huge role in shaping social-economic and political agenda of Kenya,” said Makori.
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino wished the couple a happy 50th anniversary.
“Wishing you both a happy anniversary and many more to come. We celebrate you,” said Babu.
“Happy Birthday Mama Dr Ida Odinga, may you live to blow many more candles,” wrote the ODM party.
In her birthday post, Singer Akothee said she has learnt a lot from Ida Odinga, her mentor.
“I want to appreciate you mom on this great day when God saw it wise to allow you to be in this World. Thank you for taking me as one of your children and constantly guiding me on how to carry myself amidst crises. The love I have for you is unmeasurable,” she said.
Ida History
Ida Odinga was born on August 24, 1950.
Odinga earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Nairobi in 1973.
After which, she served as a teacher for more than 20 years.
Odinga founded the League of Kenya Women Voters in 1991, which promotes opportunities for women in the political arena.
Also, Ida has mentored Kenyan schoolgirls and sat on the board of directors for an organization which aids paraplegics.
