Dr Ida Odinga, when she appeared before the National Assembly Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Belgut Mp Nelson Koech at Bunge Towers on February 20, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s wife, Ida Odinga, has appeared before a parliamentary committee for vetting following her nomination as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), based in Nairobi.

Mama Ida Odinga appeared on Friday morning before the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations at Parliament.

Read Also
Mecha eyes KRU Championship as Kisii Poly set for Kabarak showdown Rugby
Wanyonyi to reignite rivalry with Arop, Sedjati in Oslo Athletics
KSSSA Nyanza region to roll out digital player verification to curb cheating Sports

During the session, she highlighted her priorities and vision for Kenya’s engagement with UNEP.

In her remarks, Mama Ida emphasised that the management of our environment shapes the kind of life we will have.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

“How we manage or mismanage our environment will determine the quality of life we live," she said.

She emphasised that Kenya and Africa are emerging as global leaders in climate action and called for urgent, coordinated measures to address environmental degradation.

"I believe this is a critical moment when we are presented with an opportunity to shape our environmental future," she said.

"If approved by this committee, I intend to do my level best to help stop the destruction of our planet and pursue every specific priority,” she told committee members.

The vetting marks a key step in formalising her appointment.

If approved, Mama Ida Odinga will take up the role as Kenya seeks to advance sustainable development and environmental stewardship on the international stage.

President William Ruto nominated Ida Odinga for the role under powers vested in the Head of State.

Dr Ida Odinga, when she appeared before the National Assembly Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech at Bunge Towers on February 20, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Dr Ida Odinga, taking oath when she appeared before the National Assembly Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech at Bunge Towers on February 20, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Dr Ida Odinga, when she appeared before the National Assembly Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech at Bunge Towers on February 20, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Dr Ida Odinga, taking oath when she appeared before the National Assembly Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Belgut Mp Nelson Koech at Bunge Towers on February 20, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY