The nomination of Ida Betty Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme has drawn heartfelt praise from her family, with her daughter Winnie Odinga expressing pride in the historic appointment.
The East African Legislative Assembly lawmaker said the nomination reflects Ida Odinga’s decades of leadership and dedication to public service.
In an interview with Citizen TV on January 27, Winnie said her mother has the qualifications and experience necessary for the role.
“I believe she merits this position; she is qualified, educated, and she has had experience in governance and managing at very high levels of society,” Winnie said.
“I believe she has earned a position of respect within society."
She also voiced confidence that her mother will excel in her new role.
“I believe she is going to do the right thing, and I believe she deserves it,” she added.
Winnie described her mother as a resilient and independent figure who has stood firm in advocating for women’s rights over the past 40 years.
“She stood on her own for the past 40 years. She stood firm, loyal and has fought for the rights of women in this country,” Winnie said.
The EALA lawmaker said the entire family shares in celebrating Ida Odinga’s achievements and her nomination to UNEP.
“I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her. She deserves it,” Winnie said.
President William Ruto formally nominated Ida Odinga on January 23. If confirmed, she will replace Ababu Namwamba, who was recently appointed Kenya’s Ambassador to Uganda.
Ida Odinga has built a reputation as a committed educationist, civic leader, and champion for social justice and gender equality. She began her career teaching at Highway Secondary School in Nairobi before joining Kenya High School, where she spent more than a decade shaping the education of future leaders. The nomination statement notes that her years in teaching “nurtured a deep-rooted and enduring commitment to education.”
Widely recognised for her advocacy and public service, Ida Odinga has consistently worked to empower women and promote civic engagement.
At a dedication ceremony at Pefa Church on Thika Road on January 25, she expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“Thank you so much to those who have congratulated me for this new appointment. For me, it is an honour, and I’m happy about it," she said.
Despite the public attention following her nomination, Ida said she remains calm and grounded in her faith.
“These days, every time I switch on the TV, I see they are talking about me. I read the newspapers, and they are talking about me. But I don’t fear because God is with me. I encourage everyone that when you are in trouble, read Psalms 23, and things will be alright,” she said.
