Kenya’s Ambassador to the United Nations Environment Programme, Ida Odinga, has called for urgent global action to ensure developing countries are not left behind in environmental decision-making.

Speaking at the 173rd session of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Committee of Permanent Representatives in Nairobi, Odinga urged that science-based policies must be backed by real technology transfer and stronger data systems in developing nations.

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

Delivering remarks on behalf of the G77 + China, she emphasised the need to strengthen how countries manage and use environmental information to respond effectively to climate and ecological challenges.

Kenya’s ambassador to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Ida Odinga at the 173rd session of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) in Nairobi on April 21, 2026./HANDOUT

“Science-based decision-making must be accompanied by real tech transfer to developing countries and strengthening statistical capacity to manage environmental information,” she said.

Odinga noted that while scientific guidance remains central to global environmental governance, practical support is essential to enable implementation on the ground.

Her remarks come as member states gather in Nairobi for key environmental discussions, including sessions of the UN-Habitat Executive Board taking place between April 21 and 22, 2026. The meetings are set to review the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, alongside financial, administrative and budgetary priorities for 2027.

The UNEP Committee of Permanent Representatives is a key oversight body that brings together member states to guide global environmental policy and review progress on major initiatives.

The address also marks a significant moment in Odinga’s diplomatic role, coming shortly after she assumed her position at UNEP. She made her maiden visit to the United Nations offices in Nairobi on April 7, 2026, signalling the start of her tenure in the global environmental arena.

President William Ruto formally appointed Ida as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative in the Foreign Service, following approval by the National Assembly.

In a gazette notice dated February 27, 2026, the Head of State invoked Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution to formalise the appointment.

“IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution of Kenya, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint— IDA BETTY ODINGA, CANON (DR.) as Ambassador and Permanent Representative in the Foreign Service of the Republic of Kenya,” the notice read.