The appointment of Dr Ida Betty Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has sparked widespread discussion across the country, with many Kenyans eager to understand both her role and the salary attached to the high-profile diplomatic position.
President William Ruto announced the nomination on January 23, 2026, a move that surprised many given it came just months after the death of her husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away toward the end of 2025.
The timing of the appointment has fueled public debate, with opinions sharply divided on its political and symbolic significance.
While some Kenyans view the nomination as a recognition of Dr Ida Odinga’s long record of public service, education advocacy, and women’s empowerment, others have questioned the political undertones of the decision.
However, beyond the politics, a key question dominating online discussions is how much she is likely to earn in her new role.
Ida Odinga’s Expected Salary as UNEP Ambassador
Although the Kenyan government does not always publicly disclose the exact pay package of diplomatic appointees, available reports and established public service frameworks provide a clear estimate.
According to multiple sources familiar with diplomatic compensation, kenya’s ambassadors and permanent representatives typically earn between KSh1.8 million and KSh4.8 million annually, depending on factors such as rank, location, and applicable allowances.
As a Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr Ida Odinga is expected to fall on the higher end of this range. In addition to basic salary, the role often comes with housing, travel, medical, and hardship allowances, especially given the international nature of the posting.
What Does a UNEP Permanent Representative Do?
A Permanent Representative to the United Nations serves as the official diplomatic voice of their country on all UN-related matters. In Dr Odinga’s case, her role will involve representing Kenya in global environmental policy discussions hosted under UNEP, whose headquarters are based in Nairobi.
Her responsibilities include attending high-level UN meetings, engaging in multilateral diplomacy, articulating Kenya’s environmental and climate positions, and contributing to international agreements and policy frameworks.
She will also act as Kenya’s official spokesperson on UNEP matters and coordinate with both local and international stakeholders.
Public Reaction Continues
As Kenyans continue to digest the appointment, debate around the decision remains active, particularly on social media. Still, supporters argue that Dr Ida Odinga’s experience in education, social justice, and advocacy positions her well for the role, regardless of political background.
With global attention increasingly focused on climate change and environmental sustainability, her tenure at UNEP is expected to place Kenya at the centre of key international conversations while also keeping public interest firmly fixed on her performance and remuneration.
