The Kenya Airways flight carrying the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has entered Kenyan airspace, sparking an emotional wave across the country.
Flight KQ203, a Boeing from Mumbai, India, was being tracked live by over 20,000 people on the global flight monitoring platform Flightradar24. As the plane crossed into Kenyan skies shortly after 8:30 a.m., thousands watching online and on television paused — united in grief and reverence.
The aircraft is expected to touch down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at around 9:30 a.m. It departed Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport earlier at 6:23 a.m., carrying the body of a man many Kenyans regard as a national icon.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who led the delegation to India, confirmed that all arrangements for Raila’s homecoming had been completed. “This is a moment of deep reflection for our nation. Baba is coming home,” Mudavadi said in a statement early Wednesday.
The global attention surrounding the flight underscored the magnitude of Raila Odinga’s influence. For decades, he stood at the heart of Kenya’s democratic journey — a figure of resilience, reform, and unwavering conviction.
A Nation Prepares for Its Final Farewell
Upon arrival at JKIA, Raila’s body, draped in the Kenyan flag, will be received by President William Ruto, senior government officials, and members of his family. From there, the convoy will proceed to Lee Funeral Home before the casket is taken to Parliament Buildings for public viewing between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Across major towns, giant screens have been erected to broadcast the solemn proceedings, allowing Kenyans from every corner of the nation to take part in the farewell.
The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in honour of the former prime minister. A State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo Stadium from 8 a.m., followed by an overnight vigil at his Karen residence.
On Saturday, the procession will move to Kisumu, then on to Bondo, Siaya County, where Raila will be laid to rest on Sunday, in accordance with his personal wishes and the traditions of the Anglican Church.
Raila Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday morning at Devamatha Hospital in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment.
For millions, his death marks the end of an era — but his ideals, courage, and dream of a just Kenya will remain part of the nation’s conscience for generations to come.