MPs Clear Ida Odinga for Kenya’s UNEP Representative Position

National Assembly of Kenya has advanced the nomination of Ida Odinga as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme after a parliamentary committee endorsed her appointment.

The endorsement was issued by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations. Its report is due to be tabled before the House in plenary on Wednesday, when Members of Parliament will debate and vote on the nomination. 

If approved, Mrs Odinga will formally assume the diplomatic post at UNEP’s headquarters in Nairobi, representing Kenya in international environmental negotiations and policy discussions. Appearing before the committee last Friday, Mrs Odinga set out her priorities, emphasising the need for coordinated action to address environmental degradation. 

She told MPs that environmental management would shape the quality of life for future generations, and noted that Kenya and other African countries are increasingly recognised for leadership in climate action. She said she would use the role to promote sustainable development and strengthen efforts to prevent environmental damage.

Mrs Odinga also referred to her personal motivations. She described her late husband, Raila Odinga, as her strongest supporter, and said her mother’s resilience in raising six children after the death of her father had influenced her own outlook. 

She highlighted her work in education through the Ida Odinga Trust, which assists young mothers to return to school. She thanked William Ruto for nominating her, describing the appointment as a significant responsibility and an opportunity to serve the country internationally.

The plenary vote will determine whether she takes up the ambassadorial position at a time of growing focus on environmental diplomacy. Kenya, which hosts UNEP, has sought to strengthen its role in global climate discussions. If confirmed, Mrs Odinga would represent the country in shaping international environmental policy.