A Life of Quiet Strength and Advocacy

As Kenya mourns the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, attention also turns to the enduring strength and contributions of his widow, Ida Odinga. Born Ida Anyango Oyoo on August 24, 1950, in Migori, she has carved out a formidable identity beyond her role as a political spouse, becoming a respected educator, businesswoman, and activist in her own right.

Ida Odinga's journey began in the classroom, where she taught for over two decades at institutions like The Kenya High School. Among her students was the late Bomet County Governor Joyce Laboso. Her teaching career was cut short when the Kenya African National Union (KANU) government, then led by President Daniel arap Moi, expelled her from her position and school housing due to her husband's political opposition.

Navigating Political Turmoil and Championing Women's Rights

Ida Odinga's life has been inextricably linked to Kenya's turbulent political history, particularly during her husband's lengthy detentions as a political prisoner in the 1980s. During these challenging years, she largely raised their four children—Fidel (deceased), Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie—single-handedly. She often described this period as one where she was not just a wife, but also a mother, father, protector, and even a soldier.

Recognising the need for greater female participation in governance, Ida Odinga founded the League of Kenya Women Voters in 1991. As its chairperson, she actively promoted opportunities for women in the political arena through workshops, voter education, and advocacy, inspiring many to contest elections and engage in leadership. Her advocacy extended to women's health, where she led campaigns on breast cancer awareness, fistula prevention, and the eradication of jiggers.

Business Acumen and National Recognition

In 2003, Ida Odinga ventured into the corporate world, becoming the Managing Director of East African Spectre, a family-owned liquefied gas cylinder manufacturing company. This appointment made her one of the first women in Kenya to head a major corporation, a significant achievement in a male-dominated sector. Her strategic leadership transformed the company, earning her national recognition. In 2010, The Standard newspaper named her among Kenya's most powerful women.

A Partner in a Storied Political Career

Ida Odinga met Raila Odinga in 1972 while both were at the University of Nairobi, where she was pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree, which she earned in 1973. They married on September 1, 1973. Throughout Raila Odinga's extensive political career, marked by multiple presidential bids and a stint as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, Ida remained a steadfast partner. She often spoke of their marriage as one built on love, resilience, and unwavering support, despite the numerous challenges.

Following her husband's passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India, Ida Odinga addressed the nation, expressing deep sorrow and appealing for calm amidst escalating protests. She emphasised her husband's forgiving spirit and urged Kenyans to avoid carrying grudges across generations.

Evidence and Data

• Born: Ida Anyango Oyoo, August 24, 1950, Migori, Kenya.
• Education: Bachelor of Arts, University of Nairobi (1973).
• Career: Teacher for over 20 years; Managing Director, East African Spectre (since 2003).
• Advocacy: Founder, League of Kenya Women Voters (1991); Champion for women's health and education.
• Recognition: Named among Kenya's most powerful women by The Standard (2010).

Unanswered Questions and Future Outlook

While Ida Odinga's public statements have focused on peace and unity during this period of national mourning, the long-term implications of Raila Odinga's passing on Kenya's political landscape remain to be fully seen. Her role as a unifying voice, particularly in times of national tension, will be closely watched.

What to Watch

Kenyans will be observing how Ida Odinga continues to leverage her influence in advocating for women's empowerment and social causes. Her recent pledges alongside First Lady Rachel Ruto to rally women empowerment at all levels of government, made during International Women's Day celebrations in Homa Bay County in March 2025, suggest a continued commitment to these areas.