Ida's UNEP appointment sparks praise and alarm

Dr Ida Odinga. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

The nomination of Canon Dr Ida Betty Odinga as Kenya’s top diplomat to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has ignited a familiar political debate, balancing praise for her decades of service against claims the move is a trap to weaken ODM. 

The appointment, announced by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, is intended to crown Ida’s lifetime of advocacy. In a letter from State House, Mr Koskei stated that President William Ruto had, “in exercise of the prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government, nominated Canon Dr. Ida Betty Odinga, E.G.H., for appointment as Ambassador/Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).” 

The nomination now awaits National Assembly approval, but it immediately drew sharp reactions. Lawyer and activist Ndegwa Njiru warned on social media: “Dear Mama Ida. You are the mother of the nation. Don’t bite the bait that the cunning and desperate Ruto has thrown to you. That appointment is a booby trap.” Njiru framed Ida and her daughter Winnie as the last guardians of the Odinga legacy: “You and your daughter Winnie are the only remaining last line of defence in the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga family.”

Other voices welcomed the move. Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro hailed it as recognition of a lifetime of service: “Congratulations Mama Ida Odinga… This appointment is a well-deserved recognition of a lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment.”

Blogger and lawyer Wahome Thuku, however, questioned Ida’s suitability for UNEP, arguing the role requires a record in environmental affairs and diplomatic engagement. “It’s not a position you should be given just because you are the wife of the most prominent politician,” he said.

The Kenyan Permanent Representative to UNEP is far more than a ceremonial post. Based in Nairobi, the role involves high-level negotiations, policy formulation, and representing Kenya in the UNEP Assembly and its Committee of Permanent Representatives. The Representative lobbies for sustainable development initiatives, oversees programmes, implements multilateral agreements, and ensures Kenya’s voice is heard on issues including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution control.

It is a senior civil service position, funded by taxpayers, with a basic salary of between Sh700,000 and Sh1.2 million, plus allowances for housing, transport, and entertainment.

Historically, the post has been held by both career diplomats and politicians, including Gertrude N. Angote and Ambassador Catherine Kirumba Karemu. Former Foreign Affairs Chief Administrative Secretary Ababu Namwamba served until recently, before being reassigned to Uganda. Ida’s nomination thus positions her at the pinnacle of Kenya’s green diplomacy, blending national prestige with strategic influence. But as debate rages over intent and suitability, the Odinga family—and the country—watch closely to see how the appointment will shape the party, the legacy of Raila Odinga, and Kenya’s role on the global environmental stage.