The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations has approved Ida Odinga for the post of Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Ida Odinga, widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, received the committee’s endorsement after presenting her credentials and responding to MPs’ questions on her vision for the role.
President William Ruto formally nominated her on January 23, triggering the constitutional approval process for senior foreign service appointments, requiring both committee and full House confirmation.
During vetting, MPs sought clarity on her plans to strengthen Kenya’s voice in global environmental diplomacy, including climate change, sustainable development, and biodiversity conservation initiatives.
The committee’s approval clears a major hurdle, though Ida Odinga must still obtain a full National Assembly vote before formal appointment to UNEP.
In her remarks, she emphasised commitment to advancing Kenya’s interests at UNEP, headquartered in Nairobi, promising to leverage her experience in public service and advocacy.
Supporters described her as well-suited for the position, highlighting her long record in civic leadership, education, and community service as key assets for multilateral engagement.
Some opposition MPs asked probing questions on how she intends to align domestic environmental priorities with global negotiations, reflecting heightened parliamentary interest in Kenya’s diplomatic agenda.
Her nomination generated public debate after she disclosed a personal net worth of approximately Ksh500 million during the vetting process, attracting attention across political and social platforms.
If confirmed by the full House, Ida Odinga will replace Ababu Namwamba, who was reassigned as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda earlier this year.
The UNEP envoy role is strategic, as Kenya hosts the organisation’s headquarters and plays a key role in shaping environmental policy discussions in Africa and globally.
Parliament is expected to schedule a plenary vote soon, with stakeholders closely following developments as the final confirmation decision approaches.
