Ida Odinga delivered an emotional tribute to her late husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as her “biggest supporter” and the pillar behind her personal and professional journey during her vetting for a diplomatic post before the National Assembly of Kenya.
Fighting back emotions, Ida told the parliamentary committee that Raila, whom she had been married to for 52 years, played a central role in shaping her life and encouraging her ambitions.
She appeared before the Departmental Committee on Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations.
“I want to make special mention of my partner and my friend. My biggest supporter, my recently departed husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, with whom I have been married for the last 52 years,” she said.
“He always encouraged me and supported me as I pursued my dreams. He was a constant supporting pillar in my life who immensely contributed to who I am today. May his soul rest in peace.”
Her tribute briefly shifted the tone of the otherwise formal vetting process, highlighting the personal loss behind her latest public service appointment.
Ida also expressed gratitude to William Samoei Ruto for nominating her to serve as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a role that places her at the centre of global environmental diplomacy.
“I thank His Excellency, the President, William Samoei Ruto, for the trust he has placed in me by nominating me to serve our nation in this important global diplomatic role,” she said.
Beyond thanking the President, Ida acknowledged Kenyans who had sent messages of goodwill following her nomination, saying their support gave her strength during a period of mourning and transition.
She also paid tribute to her family, crediting them for standing by her throughout her life and career.
“I also thank my family and the people of Kenya who wished me well. My family and my husband moulded me and made me who I am today,” she said.
If approved, Ida will represent Kenya at UNEP headquarters in Nairobi, where she will advance the country’s environmental interests and strengthen its voice in global climate and sustainability discussions.
Her nomination reflects both recognition of her decades of public service and a continuation of her long-standing involvement in national and international affairs.
Even as she prepares to take up the diplomatic role, it was her heartfelt remembrance of Raila that stood out—a reminder of a partnership that shaped not only her life but also Kenya’s political history.
