In a move that has stunned political circles, President William Ruto has nominated Canon Dr. Ida Betty Odinga, E.G.H., the widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The nomination, announced in a presidential press release issued on Friday evening, cites Mama Ida’s decades of advocacy in education, gender equity, social justice, and environmental causes as the perfect fit for the high-profile diplomatic role.
“Her appointment… is expected to amplify Kenya’s voice on environmental issues and further reinforce the country’s longstanding leadership in environmental diplomacy,” the statement reads, highlighting Kenya’s position as host to UNEP’s global headquarters in Nairobi.
Dr. Ida Odinga, a former teacher at Kenya High School and Highway Secondary School, has long been recognised as a civic leader and champion for women, children, youth, and vulnerable communities. She founded the League of Kenya Women Voters and has consistently pushed for inclusive policies.
Her accolades include Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Elder of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.), two Honorary Doctor of Letters degrees, the Order of the Golden Heart, the Trailblazer Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Human Achievers Foundation.
The nomination comes just months after the passing of Raila Odinga in October 2025 and continues President Ruto’s pattern of high-impact Friday announcements. Political observers see the appointment as a potential bridge-building gesture across Kenya’s traditional political divide.
The nomination now heads to the National Assembly for vetting and approval, as required by the Constitution.
If confirmed, Mama Ida will represent Kenya at one of the world’s most influential environmental bodies, strengthening the country’s role in global climate and sustainability discussions.
