Nairobi County’s Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has publicly celebrated Mama Dr. Ida Odinga on the occasion of her 75th birthday. In a heartfelt message shared on his social media page, Mosiria praised her as a remarkable woman and a “mother to the nation”.
According to Mosiria, Mama Ida’s significant contributions to the country, particularly through her foundation, have transformed the lives of many in Kenya.
Championing Education and Hope
Mosiria’s message centered on Mama Ida’s foundational belief in the power of education. He quoted her directly, stating that she once reminded us that:
“Education is the most powerful tool we can give a child; it transforms generations.”
He noted that these words continue to inspire hope across the country.
“She is not only a mother to her family but a mother to the nation. Through her foundation, countless children have been nurtured, educated, and empowered, proving that true leadership is service,” Mosiria noted.
A True Matriarch for Kenya
The Chief Officer described Mama Ida Odinga as a “true matriarch and pillar of hope for Kenya” who is not only an icon within her family but also a widely recognised figure across the nation.
He further commented that her life is a testament to the principle that leadership is rooted in service to others.
“Mama Ida Odinga is a living testament that titles do not measure true greatness, but by the lives you touch and the generations you uplift. May God bless her with health, wisdom, and many more years of impact.”
A Legacy of Leadership
From her early life, where she raised her children while her husband was in political detention, to her later career as a businesswoman, Mama Ida Odinga has demonstrated resilience and leadership. In 2010, she was named one of Kenya’s most powerful women.
Beyond education, Ida Odinga is a strong advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. In 1991, she founded the League of Kenyan Women Voters, a movement aimed at increasing women’s participation in politics.
BY Moses sagwe
