Environment Cabinet Secretary (CS) Debora Barasa has congratulated Mama Ida Odinga following her presidential nomination as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
In a statement on Saturday, January 24, 2026, CS Barasa described the appointment as a well-deserved honour, noting that it reflects Mama Ida’s outstanding leadership, dedicated service, and long-standing commitment to sustainability.
“Warmest congratulations to Ida Odinga on her presidential nomination as Ambassador & Permanent Representative to UNEP. A well-deserved honor reflecting outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to sustainability. I wish you great success in this global role,” Barasa tweeted.
The appointment
President William Ruto announced the appointment of the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on January 23, 2026.
In a statement, the head of state said the nomination was made in the exercise of the presidential prerogative vested in him under the Constitution and in line with the established procedures governing appointments to the Foreign Service.
“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 appointment as Ambassador/Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),” read the notice in part.
The President has transmitted the nomination to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, as required by law.
“IN FULL FULFILMENT of the constitutional requirements on State appointments to the Foreign Service, HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT has transmitted the nomination of CANON DR. IDA BETTY ODINGA, E.G.H., to the National Assembly for consideration and approval by Parliament.”
