Ida Odinga has paid an emotional tribute to her late husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, during her vetting before members of the National Assembly for the position of Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNEP.
Appearing before the Departmental Committee on Defense, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, on February 20, Ida Odinga described Raila as her greatest pillar throughout their 52-year marriage, crediting him for continually supporting her ambitions and shaping the person she is today.
“I want to make special mention of my partner and my friend. My biggest supporter, my recently departed husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, with whom I have been married for the last 52 years,” she said. “He always encouraged me and supported me as I pursued my dreams. He was a constant pillar of support in my life, who contributed immensely to who I am today. May his soul rest in peace.
Ida Odinga’s Vetting
Ida Odinga expressed gratitude for her nomination and described the vetting process as an important moment of “service and gratitude.”
She explained that the opportunity to serve as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP would allow her to continue contributing to the country in a meaningful way.
Also Read: 5 Things Raila Odinga Will Be Remembered For by Kenyans
During the vetting, she also spoke about her long involvement in public service, from education to leadership in women’s empowerment. She mentioned that her life had often placed her in situations that demanded courage and advocacy, and reaffirmed her commitment to stand up for vulnerable communities.
Members of the committee questioned her vision for the role, prompting her to explain how she hoped to strengthen Kenya’s environmental diplomacy, especially because UNEP is headquartered in Nairobi
Ida said that Kenya has a unique responsibility as the host of UNEP. In her submission, the UNEP envoy nominee promised to ensure the country maintains its influence in global environmental discussions if appointed to the role.
Ida Reveals Personal Net Worth
As part of the vetting requirements, Ida revealed her personal net worth to the committee. When Ida Odinga was asked about her net worth by the the chairperson of the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, Nelson Koech, Ida told the committee that her personal wealth was about KSh 500 million, making it clear that this amount covered only what she personally owns.
Ida explained that not everything associated with the wider Oginga family belonged to her, and thus her declaration focused only on her own assets.
“There are things that belong to me and those that belong to the Oginga family… but mine is about KSh 500 million,” said Ida Odinga.
Also Read: Parliament Clarifies Letter on Vetting 3 Cabinet Nominees
Nomination Details and Leadership Transition
Ida Odinga was nominated by President William Ruto on January 23, 2026.
If Parliament approves her appointment, Ida will take over the role from Ababu Namwamba, who previously served as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNEP before being reassigned as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda.
UNEP’s Role and Significance
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the global body responsible for guiding environmental policy and coordinating international environmental efforts.
It works on climate change, biodiversity protection, pollution control, and sustainable development.
UNEP’s headquarters are in Nairobi, making Kenya a special player in global environmental matters.
The role of Permanent Representative is vital as the ambassador represents Kenya in key discussions that influence global environmental decisions.
If approved, Ida Odinga would be expected to strengthen Kenya’s standing in these international negotiations and help ensure the country benefits from hosting such an influential UN body.
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