By Dorothy Musyoka
President William Ruto has nominated Ida Betty Odinga, as the country’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
In a statement issued by the Executive Office of the President, His Excellency the President, exercising the prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government, formally nominated Canon Dr. Odinga for appointment to the strategic diplomatic post, subject to parliamentary approval.
“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 the appointment as Ambassador/ Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),” read the statement.
“Her appointment to this role, subject to the requiste parliamentary approval, is expected to amplify Kenya’s voice on environmental issues and further reinforce the country’s longstanding leadership in environmental diplomacy.
President Ruto described Ida Odinga as a distinguished educator, civic leader and advocate for social justice and gender equity.
Beyond education, Dr. Odinga has played a pivotal role in Kenya’s democratic journey. During the early 1990s, at a time when the country was transitioning from a single-party system to a multiparty democracy.
She served as the founding Chairperson of the League of Kenya Women Voters, championing democratic change and amplifying calls for inclusive governance.
In the private sector, Dr. Ida Odinga demonstrated strong leadership, including her involvement in family enterprises such as East African Spectre, a liquefied gas cylinder manufacturing company that has contributed to Kenya’s energy sector and industrial development.
Her influence extends well beyond Kenya’s borders. Internationally, she is widely respected as a credible and articulate African voice.
In recognition of her lifelong contributions to education, leadership, and humanitarian causes, she has received numerous honours.
These include an Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) degree in 2018, the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH),Kenya’s highest civilian honour—in 2025, as well as several distinguished awards such as the Trailblazer Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Human Achievers Foundation.
Dr. Odinga’s nomination is expected to further amplify Kenya’s voice on global environmental issues, reinforcing the country’s longstanding leadership in environmental diplomacy and its pivotal role as host of UNEP, the United Nations’ principal environmental authority.
In line with constitutional requirements, the nomination has been transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval.
Upon confirmation, her appointment will mark a new chapter in Kenya’s engagement with the global environmental agenda, grounded in experience, advocacy and a lifelong commitment to public service.