The National Assembly has approved the nomination of Mama Ida Odinga as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), marking a significant moment in the country’s diplomatic landscape.
Mama Ida, the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, was vetted by the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations earlier this week.
During the vetting process, she outlined her vision of strengthening Kenya’s voice in global environmental governance and leveraging UNEP’s presence in Nairobi to champion climate justice, sustainable development, and environmental conservation across Africa.
Her approval comes months after the passing of her husband, Raila Odinga, whose death sent shockwaves across the political divide.
Raila, a towering figure in Kenya’s opposition politics and leader of the Orange Democratic Movement, died after a short illness, bringing to an end decades of active political life that shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
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Leaders from across Africa paid tribute to him as a statesman who tirelessly fought for reforms and social justice.
During her appearance before lawmakers, Mama Ida spoke emotionally about continuing a legacy of public service, noting that her late husband had always been passionate about environmental sustainability and regional cooperation.
She pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs to enhance Kenya’s strategic role at United Nations Environment Programme, whose headquarters are in Nairobi.
Members of Parliament who supported her nomination cited her vast experience in public life, education advocacy, and regional diplomacy.
With the approval now secured, Mama Ida is set to formally assume office in the coming weeks, representing Kenya at the global environmental body headquartered in the capital, Nairobi.
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