Ruto Appoints Raila Widow Ida Kenya’s Ambassador to UNEP

Kenya'a President William Ruto has nominated Canon Dr. Ida Betty Odinga, EGH, as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), according to a press release issued by the Executive Office of the President.

The nomination, made under Presidential Action No. III of 2026, has been formally transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval in line with constitutional requirements governing appointments to the Foreign Service.

If approved by Parliament, Canon Dr. Odinga will represent the Republic of Kenya at UNEP, whose global headquarters are based in Nairobi. Her appointment is expected to further strengthen Kenya’s leadership role in environmental diplomacy and amplify the country’s voice on global environmental and climate issues.

Canon Dr. Odinga is a distinguished educationist, civic leader, and long-time advocate for social justice and gender equity. She began her career as a teacher at Highway Secondary School in Nairobi before serving at Kenya High School, where she spent more than a decade mentoring and shaping future leaders.

Widely known as a champion for democratic reform, she played a significant role in Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy in the early 1990s and served as the founding Chairperson of the League of Kenya Women Voters. Over the years, she has remained actively engaged in initiatives supporting women, youth, children, and vulnerable communities.

In recognition of her public service and contribution to national development, Canon Dr. Odinga has received several honours, including two Honorary Doctor of Letters degrees. In 2018, she was awarded Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH).

She is also the widow of former Prime Minister and long-serving opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away in October 2025.

The nomination was signed by the Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, Felix K. Koskei, EGH, on Friday, January 23, 2026.