East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga has welcomed her mother’s nomination, Ida Betty Odinga, as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on January 27, Winnie said she feels proud of her mother and believes the nomination is well deserved.
“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."
Winnie also expressed confidence in her mother’s ability to deliver in the new role.
“I believe she is going to do the right thing, and I believe she deserves it,” she said.
The EALA MP described Ida as a strong and independent woman who has stood firm for decades.
“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.
She said the entire family is proud of Ida’s achievements and the nomination.
“I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her. She deserves it,” Winnie said.
Winnie’s remarks highlight the family’s support for Ida’s nomination and underline her long history of advocacy for women’s rights.
President Ruto nominated Ida on January 23.
If approved, Ida will replace Ababu Namwamba, who was reassigned as Kenya’s Ambassador to Uganda.
Mama Ida Odinga is a respected educationist, civic leader, and advocate for social justice and gender equity.
She began her career as a graduate teacher at Highway Secondary School in Nairobi before moving to Kenya High School, where she spent over a decade shaping the minds of future leaders.
Her years in the classroom, according to the nomination statement, “nurtured a deep-rooted and enduring commitment to education.”
The nominee is widely recognised for her lifelong dedication to public service and advancing women’s empowerment.
In welcoming her nomination, Mama Ida described it as an honour.
Speaking during a dedication ceremony at the Pefa Church, Thika Road, on Sunday, January 25, Mama Ida said, “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."
Mama Ida said she remains calm despite the heightened public attention following her nomination to the UNEP.
“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.
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