Kenya Airways (KQ) has added and upgraded several flights to Kisumu ahead of the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The move comes as thousands of mourners prepare to travel to the lakeside city for the weekend events leading up to Raila’s private burial in Bondo on Sunday.
Highlights
- KQ adds extra flights and upgrades several to Boeing 737 ahead of Raila’s burial.
- Friday saw two new flights added: KQ656 (1:30 pm) and KQ658 (7:00 pm).
- Saturday and Sunday flights were also upgraded to handle increased demand.
- Raila Odinga’s body to be viewed in Kisumu before final private burial in Bondo.
- The former Prime Minister received a State Funeral service at Nyayo Stadium on Friday.
Main Story
Kenya Airways Steps In
National carrier Kenya Airways has responded to increased travel demand by adding extra flights and upgrading existing ones to Kisumu. The move is aimed at easing movement for mourners traveling to pay their last respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
On Friday, KQ introduced flights KQ656 at 1:30 pm and KQ658 at 7:00 pm.
On Saturday, an additional KQ650 flight at 6:50 am was scheduled, while KQ654 at 8:05 am was upgraded to a Boeing 737.
On Sunday, KQ654 (8:05 am) and KQ671 (7:00 pm) were also upgraded to Boeing 737 aircraft, with KQ654 and KQ670 receiving similar upgrades on Monday.
The adjustments ensure enough capacity for mourners heading to the lakeside city and surrounding areas for the funeral activities.
Raila’s Final Journey
Raila Odinga, who passed away in India after a cardiac arrest, was flown back to Kenya last week. His body was first taken to Kasarani Stadium for public viewing before a State Funeral service was held at Nyayo Stadium on Friday an event attended by President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and several foreign dignitaries.
The body was kept at Nyayo Stadium for the rest of the day for public viewing. On Saturday morning, it was scheduled to be flown to Kisumu for another public viewing session at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, where thousands of supporters are expected to attend.
Private Burial in Bondo
According to the Odinga family, Raila’s final resting place will be at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. The private burial ceremony, set for Sunday, will be attended only by close family members and selected guests, honoring the late leader’s wish for an intimate farewell.
Raila’s passing has drawn tributes from across Kenya and beyond, with many describing him as a tireless champion for democracy and freedom.
Read Also
- Winnie Odinga: “Baba Died Strong, With Dignity and Pride”
- Raila’s Body Arrives in Nairobi Amid Tears and Chaos
You Might Have Missed This
- Samia Suluhu: Raila’s Death Is a Pain Shared Across Borders
- Leaders in Tears: Kindiki and Wanga Join Mourners at Raila Odinga’s Residence
“As the country prepares to lay him to rest, Kenyans continue to journey by road, air, and heart to honor a man whose legacy forever changed their nation.”
