|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
KQ RAO001: All eyes turned to the Kenya Airways (KQ) Boeing 737-800 as it descended gracefully onto the runway, its presence commanding silent reverence. Bearing the call sign RAO001, the aircraft had been awaited through the long hours of the night, completing its solemn journey from Nairobi to Bombay and back. On board were the mortal remains of the Right Honorable Raila Amolo Odinga – patriot, statesman and beloved son of the Republic of Kenya.
Once again, KQ has risen with unwavering resolve to meet the moment – demonstrating its deep attunement to the nation’s heartbeat and responding swiftly when duty calls. This occasion was no exception.
The nation was plunged into mourning following the passing of Odinga – affectionately known as Baba, Kiswahili for “father” – who drew his final breath in India early Wednesday morning. The sorrow that swept across the land was profound, a testament to the deep affection and respect he commanded. In such a moment of collective grief, only the swift and dignified return of his remains could begin to bring solace to a mourning people.
From the moment the decision was made to repatriate Baba’s remains, KQ sprang into action, driven by urgency and a deep sense of national duty. Baba had expressed a solemn wish: to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his passing. With time slipping away, the airline’s leadership, in close coordination with government authorities, moved swiftly and decisively. Their first priority was to assemble a dignified delegation – comprising close family members and senior government officials – who would journey to India to receive the body of a beloved son of the nation.
Raila Odinga: William Ruto reveals how Raila’s body will be transported from India
Second, it was imperative to secure an aircraft adorned in the livery of our nation – an honorable tribute befitting a statesman of Baba’s stature. Preparations were swiftly undertaken to carry the national flag, destined to receive and solemnly drape his casket as a symbol of the nation’s collective mourning and deep respect. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of KQ staff worked tirelessly in coordination with Indian authorities to ensure that Baba’s remains were adequately prepared for the journey home. Throughout this process, they stood steadfast besides the grieving family and friends, offering step-by-step guidance and unwavering support, while working in close coordination with funeral associations both in Kenya and India.
RAO001 touched down on time, greeted by an unprecedented sea of mourners at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport – a moment unlike any other in the nation’s history. As Kenya prepares to lay Baba to rest, the country stands in profound gratitude for the pivotal role played by the national carrier Kenya Airways. In this hour of mourning, the soul of the nation aches – and in true African spirit, Kenya grieves deeply, for it is through sorrow that the country begins to heal, especially when bidding farewell to a leader so dearly cherished.
Today, Kenyans are reminded that the value of KQ transcends profits and spreadsheets. It is a vessel of national identity and pride – one that, true to its motto, “The Pride of Africa,” continues to connect people, cultures, and markets – in life and even in death. Let this final homecoming serve as a testament that Kenya Airways is not merely an airline, but a symbol of unity, dignity, and the enduring spirit of a grateful nation.
