Ida Odinga Biography: “Mama Ida” of Kenya, Age, Education, Early Life, Career and Activism

Ida Betty Odinga (née Anyango Oyoo) was born on 24 August 1950 in Migori County, Kenya. She grew up in a family that placed high value on education and service: her mother, Rosa Oyoo, was among Kenya’s first black nurses, and her father was a respected doctor in Kisii.

Education

Ida attended Ogande Girls High School and Highlands Girls School (now Moi Girls High). Later she studied at the University of Nairobi, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (Education) in 1973. It was also here that she met her future husband. (Wikipedia)

Career & Activism

After graduation, Ida taught at Kenya High School, an all-girls public school in Nairobi, for over 20 years. (The Standard) She became widely known for her advocacy and leadership:

• In 1991, she founded the League of Kenya Women Voters to promote women’s participation in politics. (The Standard)
• In 2003, she became Managing Director of East African Spectre, a liquified gas cylinder manufacturing company, becoming one of the first Kenyan women to head a major industrial firm. (The Standard)
• She has been a strong voice for women’s health, children’s welfare, and education—championing causes like breast cancer awareness, fistula prevention, and providing libraries in schools. (The Standard)

Personal Life – Family & “Mama Ida”

Ida married Raila Odinga on 1 September 1973. Their partnership spanned decades. (The Standard) Together, they had four children: Fidel (1973 – 2015), Rosemary (born 1977), Raila Jr. (born 1979) and Winnie (born 1990). (Radio47) As wife to a prominent political figure, Ida earned the affectionate title “Mama Ida” or “Min Piny” (Mother of the Earth) among many Kenyans. (avdeltanews.world)

Age & Current Status

Born in 1950, Ida Odinga turned 75 years old on 24 August 2025, marking a milestone of continued public life and influence. (avdeltanews.world)

Facts & Highlights

• Her mother was Kenya’s first black registered nurse—an early example of pioneering service in her family. (The Standard)
• While teaching, she lived on the staff quarters at Kenya High School, and later had to leave the campus when her husband was detained during a political crackdown in the 1980s. (mheshimiwa.co.ke)
• She once remarked, “It’s good to be a wife… but it’s better to be an educated wife”, emphasizing her belief in women’s empowerment. (Wikipedia)
• At her alma mater Ogande Girls High School, she led a fundraising campaign of KSh 176.9 million to build a modern library for students. (The Standard)

Legacy

Ida Odinga’s life spans education, business, activism and family-leadership. She stands out not just as the partner of a major political figure, but as a substantial force in her own right—advocating for women, children, and education in Kenya. She remains a respected matriarch and mentor, with a legacy of service deeply rooted in her values.

FAQs

Q1: What is Ida Odinga’s nationality?
She is Kenyan.

Q2: What major organisation did she found?
She founded the League of Kenya Women Voters in 1991.

Q3: Who is Ida Odinga married to?
She was married to Raila Odinga.

Q4: What are some of her major roles outside teaching?
She led East African Spectre as Managing Director and has been a prominent advocate for women’s health and education.

Q5: How old is Ida Odinga as of 2025?
She turned 75 on 24 August 2025.