Ida Odinga, widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has declared a personal net worth of KSh 500 million during parliamentary vetting for her nomination as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme.
Appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on Friday, Ida Odinga clarified that her wealth is distinct from family assets linked to the Oginga Odinga family. “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,” she said, without detailing the sources of her wealth.
During the session, she outlined her vision for the role, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle environmental degradation in Kenya and Africa. She warned that sustainable climate action is critical for the country’s future prosperity and pledged to prioritize vulnerable communities in her work.
“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,” Ida Odinga said.
She further committed to championing Kenya’s and Africa’s interests at the global environmental body. “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 tribute, Ida Odinga also honoured 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 table its report for debate and approval by the National Assembly.
