President William Ruto has nominated Ida Betty Odinga to serve as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme, marking a significant diplomatic appointment that now awaits approval by the National Assembly. The nomination places her at the center of Kenya’s engagement with global environmental matters and reflects a broader government effort to strengthen the country’s role in international institutions.
The announcement was made on Friday by the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, who said the President had made the decision in recognition of Ida’s long record of public service and leadership. According to the statement, the President acknowledged her contribution to society, especially her work in promoting education for women and advancing empowerment at the community and national level.
Her career was described as one grounded in service, courage, and a consistent stand for fairness and inclusion.
Koskei noted that the nomination was carried out under the President’s constitutional authority and has now been formally forwarded to Parliament for review. As required by law, the National Assembly will examine the appointment before giving its approval or rejection. This process is part of the checks and balances that govern appointments to Kenya’s Foreign Service.
“His Excellency the President has, in exercise of the prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government, caused the nomination of Canon Dr Ida Betty Odinga, E.G.H., for appointment as Ambassador/Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),” the statement read in part.
“In her own right, she has stood resolutely against authoritarianism and injustice, championed freedom of expression, advanced gender equity, and promoted education as a cornerstone for inclusive national development.”
If approved, Ida will represent Kenya at UNEP, which is headquartered in Gigiri, Nairobi. UNEP is the only United Nations global headquarters located in a developing country, and Kenya has for decades played a host role and contributed to shaping environmental discussions at the global level.
The government believes her appointment will help strengthen Kenya’s voice in international environmental diplomacy and support ongoing efforts to address climate change, conservation, and sustainable development.
The Head of Public Service added that this nomination aligns with President Ruto’s wider plan to position Kenya strategically within multilateral institutions. Environmental protection and sustainable development have been highlighted as key areas where the country seeks to expand its influence and partnerships.
Ida Odinga is the wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a veteran leader who passed away in October last year. Her nomination has therefore drawn public attention, not only because of her personal history but also because of the timing and significance of the role.
The appointment comes shortly after a diplomatic reshuffle announced earlier in the week. On Wednesday, January 21, President Ruto reassigned Ababu Namwamba, who had been Kenya’s first representative to UNEP, to serve as High Commissioner to Uganda. Namwamba replaced Joash Maangi, who had held the Uganda post since 2024. Maangi was in turn redeployed to Brussels, Belgium, where he will represent Kenya to the European Commission.
