Ida Odinga, the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, revealed a personal net worth of about Ksh.500 million during her parliamentary vetting for Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative role at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations on Friday, she clarified that her wealth is separate from family assets.
“There are things that belong to me and those that belong to the Oginga family, for whom I also have interest, but mine is about Ksh.500 million,” Ida told the committee, stopping short of detailing the source of her wealth.
During the session, she outlined her priorities if approved for the post. She emphasised the urgency of tackling environmental degradation and its impact on Kenya’s future prosperity.
“How we manage or mismanage our environment will determine the quality of life we live. Through my work, I will address the devastating effects of environmental degradation, especially on vulnerable people in society. This is a critical moment when we have the opportunity to shape our environmental future,” she said.
Ida also stressed her commitment to champion Kenya’s and Africa’s interests at the global level.
“I intend to help stop the destruction of our planet and pursue all related priorities. I will be keen to ensure that Kenya’s and Africa’s interests are represented and working together with other parties to see that the impact of these actions is not just high-level but reaching out to the grassroots level,” she added.
In a poignant moment, she paid tribute to her late husband of 52 years.
“I want to make a special mention of my biggest supporter, my recently departed husband, Raila Odinga. He immensely contributed to the person I am today,” she said.
The parliamentary committee is expected to retreat and prepare a report for the National Assembly, which will then debate and vote on her nomination.
Ida Odinga’s candidacy comes at a critical time for Kenya’s environmental agenda, with global attention on climate change and sustainable development. Analysts note that her leadership and visibility could strengthen Kenya’s voice at UNEP, particularly in representing African priorities on the international stage.
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