Mama Ida Odinga has officially taken her first step into her new diplomatic role within President William Ruto’s administration, marking a significant transition from domestic politics to the global stage.
The widow of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga, Mama Ida—formally known as Ida Odinga—was on Thursday received by Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba as she prepares to assume her new role as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Her appointment, made just months after the passing of Raila Odinga, sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some Kenyans urging her to decline the position. However, her acceptance now signals a willingness to serve in a new capacity under the current administration.
In a statement shared after their meeting, Ababu Namwamba confirmed that the process of onboarding Mama Ida into her diplomatic role had officially begun. He expressed confidence in her ability to represent Kenya effectively at the international level.
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“Earlier today I met Her Excellency Dr. Canon Idah Betty Odinga, to commence the process of welcoming her to the United Nations as Kenya’s incoming Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNEP. Mama Idah is guaranteed our full support as she gets ready to commence her tour of diplomatic duty in the service of our Motherland,” Namwamba stated.
Kenya hosts one of the four United Nations headquarters globally, making the UNEP office in Nairobi a strategic diplomatic hub. Namwamba noted that Mama Ida’s vast experience, leadership, and deep understanding of national and regional issues would play a key role in advancing Kenya’s interests, particularly during a time of major reforms within the UN system.
He further highlighted the importance of her appointment as the world faces pressing global challenges, including climate change and evolving multilateral relations.
The meeting also took a personal tone, with Namwamba extending his condolences to Mama Ida following the death of Raila Odinga, whom he described as his political mentor. The two leaders also discussed a wide range of national matters, including diplomacy, governance, and the future of Kenya’s political landscape.
Mama Ida’s entry into the diplomatic arena represents a new chapter in her public service journey, one that is expected to place her at the center of key global conversations while continuing to shape Kenya’s voice on the international stage.
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