Merge photo of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Ida Odinga/FILE
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has praised the nomination of Ida Odinga as Kenya’s next Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), describing the move by President William Ruto as timely, fitting and well thought out.
The nomination, announced Friday, January 23, acknowledges Ida’s long record of public service and advocacy as a boost to Kenya’s role in global environmental diplomacy.
In a statement, Murkomen said Ida’s appointment reflects not only her immense contributions to the socio‑economic development of Kenya but also her decades of leadership in education, women’s rights and inclusive governance, fields in which she has left a lasting impact.
He emphasised that her experience, stature and commitment will significantly strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic engagement on environmental issues at the United Nations headquarters in Nairobi.
“Her nomination for appointment as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme by President William Ruto is timely, fitting and well thought out,” Murkomen wrote, noting that Ida’s record of service positions her well to elevate Kenya’s voice on global environmental matters.
He added that the nomination also honours the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose lifelong dedication to justice, environmental protection and national unity continues to inspire the nation.
President Ruto’s decision to nominate Ida was formally communicated by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, who described her as a respected educationist, civic leader, and advocate for social justice and gender equity.
The nomination has now been transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, a constitutional requirement for foreign service appointments.
Ida’s professional journey began as a graduate teacher, where she spent more than a decade shaping young minds in Nairobi schools before expanding her influence into public advocacy and civic leadership.
Alongside her work in education, she has championed initiatives aimed at empowering women and vulnerable communities, and has been recognised with honorary degrees and national awards for her contributions to society.
If approved by Parliament, she will replace Ababu Namwamba, who was reassigned as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda.
As Permanent Representative to UNEP, she is expected to represent Kenya’s interests in negotiations on climate change, biodiversity, pollution control, and sustainable development policies, and to strengthen the country’s engagement with global partners on environmental governance.
Several other leaders from across the political divide have also congratulated her.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the nomination reflects the country’s shared resolve to advance Kenya’s interests on the global stage, particularly in environmental diplomacy.
“This nomination is a fitting recognition of your distinguished service, moral leadership and steadfast commitment to public good,” he said.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir wrote, “extend my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to Canon Dr Ida Betty Odinga, E.G.H., on her well-deserved appointment.”
Nandi Senator Kiprotich Cherargei hailed the appointment as fruits of the broad-based government
Cherargei said the appointment will bring more stability in the ODM party.
Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu noted that Ida is an excellent choice for the job.
“Your wealth of experience in leadership, education, advocacy and public service makes you an excellent choice to represent Kenya on the global stage. And seeing your lifelong service finally acknowledged at this level is inspiring and exciting for women of Kenya. I wish you wisdom, strength and God’s guidance as you serve Kenya and the world,” she said.