Winnie Odinga’s message to Mama Ida after accepting Ruto’s job
Winnie Odinga, the daughter of the late Raila Odinga and Mama Ida Odinga, has broken silence with a heartfelt message to her mother following her nomination to a key international role.
Speaking to a local TV station on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Winnie said she felt deep pride in Mama Ida’s appointment and thanked her for the lifelong example she has set in public service and advocacy.
Family pride and legacy
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Winnie described her mother as a woman who has stood firm for more than four decades, remaining loyal to her values while fighting for the rights of women across the country.
She said the entire family was proud of Mama Ida, adding that the nomination was long deserved given her consistency, discipline and courage in public life.
“I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her. She deserves it,” Winnie said. “She stood on her own for the past 40 years. She stood firm, loyal and has fought for the rights of women in this country.”
The former East African Legislative Assembly MP went on to defend her mother’s credentials, noting that Mama Ida’s education, experience and exposure to governance had prepared her for the role.
Winnie said the nomination was not symbolic but earned through years of hard work and sacrifice.
“I feel pride. I believe she merits this position; she is qualified, educated, and has had experience in governance and managing at very high levels of society,” she said.
UNEP nomination context
Winnie’s remarks come days after Canon Ida Odinga officially accepted her nomination as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme.
Speaking during a dedication ceremony at the Pefa Church, Thika Road, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, Mama Ida described the nomination by President William Ruto as an honour.
“For me, it is an honour and I’m happy about it,” she said, thanking Kenyans who had sent congratulatory messages.
The nomination has since been forwarded to Parliament for vetting and approval, as required for all Foreign Service appointments.
If approved, Mama Ida will replace Ababu Namwamba, who has been reassigned as Kenya’s Ambassador to Uganda.
Despite the heightened public attention, Mama Ida said she remained calm and grounded, urging Kenyans to remain prayerful.
Her appointment has sparked national debate, with supporters pointing to her long record in education, activism and women’s empowerment, while others view it within the wider context of President Ruto’s ongoing diplomatic reshuffle.
