Ida Odinga hosts Ruto at a church service in high-stakes Siaya visit

Ida Odinga has hosted President William Samoei Ruto at an Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) service in Bondo, Siaya County, in a rare moment of political and religious convergence.

She received the Head of State in her capacity as the Canon of the Anglican Church.

The service, held in Bondo on Sunday, March 8, 2026, where the veteran educationist and wife of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga serves as an ACK canon, brought together local leaders, clergy, and residents for prayers and reflection.

Ruto attended the church service as part of his broader development tour of Siaya County on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

Orengo no-show

During the visit, the President also presided over the launch of the Bondo Community Digital Hub, an initiative aimed at expanding digital access and empowering youth and entrepreneurs with technology and online opportunities.

However, the high-profile visit was marked by the notable absence of Siaya Governor James Orengo, who skipped both the church service and the launch of the digital hub. Orengo’s absence comes amid tensions following the recent arrest of some of his staff members, which he has publicly described as politically motivated intimidation ahead of the President’s tour of the county.

Despite the governor’s absence, the event proceeded with strong local representation. Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga stepped in to receive President Ruto and usher him to address residents during the development event.

The Bondo church service also comes at a significant moment for Ida Odinga, who is preparing to assume a major diplomatic role after her recent appointment to represent Kenya internationally.

 Ida Odinga UNEP role

President Ruto formally appointed her as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative in the Foreign Service following approval by the National Assembly.

In a gazette notice dated February 27, 2026, the President invoked Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution to formalise the appointment.

In the notice, Ruto named Canon (Dr.) Ida Betty Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative, clearing the way for her to assume office as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), headquartered in Nairobi.

Members of the National Assembly approved her nomination after a vetting process by the Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Nelson Koech.

During the vetting, Ida Odinga pledged to strengthen Kenya’s climate diplomacy and build partnerships that ensure environmental initiatives deliver tangible benefits to vulnerable communities.

Her upcoming role at UNEP places her at the centre of global environmental diplomacy, even as she continues to play influential roles in community, church, and national affairs.

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