Ida Betty Odinga, born Ida Anyango Oyoo on August 24, 1950, in Ngenda, Gatundu, Kiambu County, has been recognized as a pillar of strength in Kenyan public life. Raised by Chief Muhoho wa Gathecha and Anne Nyokabi Muhoho, Ida’s early life was steeped in community leadership and traditional values, shaping her into a resilient figure who would become the wife of one of Kenya’s most enduring politicians, Raila Odinga. The couple tied the knot in 1973, marking the beginning of a 52-year marriage that blended personal devotion with national service. Ida, often affectionately called “Mama Ida,” stood by Raila through turbulent times, including his detentions during Kenya’s one-party era and the high-stakes 2007 post-election violence.
Beyond her role as a supportive spouse, Ida carved out her own legacy as a businesswoman, activist, and educator. She championed women’s rights for over two decades, advocating for gender equality in education and economic empowerment. Her professional journey includes ventures in business and education, where she has promoted initiatives to uplift marginalized communities. As the matriarch of the Odinga family, Ida raised four children—Fidel (who tragically passed away in 2015), Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie—while maintaining a low public profile that contrasted with her husband’s spotlight. Her influence extended into politics subtly, offering counsel during Raila’s campaigns and leadership in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Ida’s life exemplifies quiet fortitude amid Kenya’s volatile political landscape. Even in recent years, as Raila pursued the African Union Commission chairmanship, she remained a voice for unity and progress. Today, following Raila’s passing on October 15, 2025, Ida’s enduring partnership is remembered as a cornerstone of his legacy, a testament to love and shared purpose in the face of adversity.
