NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan educationist and public figure Ida Odinga has disclosed a personal net worth of KSh500 million while appearing before a parliamentary committee for vetting as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme.
During the session before the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations of the National Assembly of Kenya, Odinga clarified that the figure represented her individual assets and not broader family holdings.
“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 Odinga stated without providing any further details on the source of the immense wealth.
Her nomination comes at a time when Kenya is seeking stronger influence in global environmental diplomacy, particularly as climate vulnerability continues to affect many African economies.
Outlining her priorities, Odinga emphasised the urgency of addressing environmental degradation and its social consequences.
“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 added.
If approved, Odinga is expected to represent Kenya at UNEP headquarters in Nairobi, a strategic role that places the country at the centre of global climate negotiations, biodiversity frameworks and green financing discussions.
She also pledged to advocate for regional interests within multilateral environmental platforms.
“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 stated.
In an emotional moment during the vetting, Odinga paid tribute to her late husband, veteran opposition leader Raila O`dinga, acknowledging his influence on her public life.
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“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 stated.
The parliamentary committee is expected to compile its report before forwarding the nomination to the House for debate and possible approval, the final step before formal diplomatic appointment.
Her potential posting reflects Kenya’s continued positioning as a global environmental hub, hosting major climate conferences and shaping policy conversations around sustainable development across the continent.
