September 12, 2026

Atlantic Digest International Women’s Month 2025 celebrates Millie Odhiambo

Millie Grace Akoth Odhiambo Mabona, born on November 1, 1966, is a Kenyan politician and trained lawyer who has been serving as the Member of Parliament for Suba North Constituency since 2008. She initially entered parliament as a nominated member and was subsequently elected under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in 2013.
 
Born in Homa Bay County, Mabona is the fourth of eight children to parents Harrison Odhiambo and Damaris Auma Odhiambo. Her father tragically passed away in a boat accident in 1973, an event that influenced her interest in politics. 
She attended Homa Bay Primary School, then proceeded to St. Francis Girls High School and Limuru Girls High School. In 1986, she enrolled at the University of Nairobi, earning a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1990. Furthering her education, Mabona pursued studies in the United States, Sweden, and Italy, focusing on democracy, governance, and human rights.
 
She began her career in the Attorney General’s office, practicing civil litigation before transitioning to human rights law with an emphasis on women’s and children’s rights. In 1999, she served as chairperson of the Coalition on Violence Against Women-Kenya. From 2000 to 2008, she was the founder and director of the CRADLE Children’s Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving children’s rights within the legal system.
 
Her political journey commenced in 2007 when she was nominated as a Member of Parliament by the ODM. She successfully contested and won the Suba North Constituency seat in the 2013 general elections and has retained her position in subsequent elections. 
 
Throughout her tenure, Mabona has been recognized for her outspoken nature and dedication to legislative reforms. She has sponsored significant bills, including the Victim Protection Bill (2013) and the In-Vitro Fertilization Bill (2014), reflecting her commitment to addressing issues related to victims’ rights and reproductive health.
 
In 2006, she married Magugu Mabona, a Zimbabwean national. The couple maintains a long-distance relationship, with Millie being a stepmother to Mr Mabona’s daughter, Lebo, who resides in Botswana. She has been open about her personal challenges, including her experiences with uterine fibroids, which have affected her ability to conceive.
 
Beyond her legislative duties, she is a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has played a pivotal role in pushing for progressive laws related to gender equality and children’s welfare. Her legislative work includes efforts to improve laws on domestic violence, reproductive health, and child protection. In 2024, she championed the Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, aimed at regulating the use of technology to address infertility issues.
 
Mrs Mabona’s career reflects her enduring dedication to progressive politics and her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in Kenya.