Mama Ida Odinga on Sunday, August 24, hosted friends, family, and political leaders at her Karen home in Nairobi to celebrate her 75th birthday.
The event brought together a mix of close associates and leaders, among them Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse and Makadara MP George Aladwa, who joined other invited guests to celebrate Ida’s birthday.
In a statement Sunday evening, Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse praised Mama Ida for her legacy in education, reforms, and leadership.
"Kenya respects your contributions as an educationist, reformer, entrepreneur, global peace ambassador, as well as a pioneer of the women's movement. You are a great woman. May you live to blow many, many more, and thank you for inviting me," he said.
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Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also attended the colourful celebration, described Ida as a symbol of resilience and inspiration in the social and political landscape.
"Today, I was deeply honoured to join family, friends, and fellow leaders in celebrating the 75th birthday of H.E. Mama Ida Odinga. Mama Ida stands as a pillar of strength, grace, and resilience, a mother to the nation who has inspired generations through her unwavering commitment to education, community empowerment, and the values of unity and justice," he said.
He went on to add;
"As we mark this milestone, we celebrate not only her life but also her immense contributions to Kenya’s social and political journey. On behalf of many who hold her in the highest regard, I extend my warmest wishes for good health, joy, and continued blessings. Happy 75th Birthday, min piny."
Mama Ida was born on August 24, 1950, in Migori County.
She grew up in a Christian household under the guidance of her parents, the late Reverend Henry Odhiambo and Mama Rose Otieno.
Mama Ida attended Ogande Girls High School in Homa Bay County before joining the University of Nairobi, where she studied education.
At the university, she met Raila Odinga, who would later become her husband and a central figure in Kenyan politics. They married in 1973.
Mama Ida built a professional career in teaching, working as a teacher and later rose to become the headmistress of Kenya High School.
In 1991, she was controversially dismissed from her position, a move widely believed to have been politically motivated due to Raila's opposition to the then KANU regime.
Beyond teaching, Mama Ida has been involved in women’s empowerment, education reforms, and health initiatives.
