Singapore-Based Kenyan Businesswoman Launches Airline Named After Raila Odinga
A Kenyan businesswoman has announced an ambitious plan to launch an airline and name it after the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Sheila Mutundi, a model and businesswoman based in Singapore, spoke exclusively to Kenyans.co.ke, where she revealed ‘Raila Airways’ was in the works and would be launched in the coming weeks.
“We chose the name Raila as a tribute, to honour his legacy and keep it alive,” Mutundi said, adding that the project is rooted in admiration for the former Prime Minister and her own ambition.
According to Mutundi, the airline is expected to begin operations in 2026 and will fly international routes rather than domestic ones within Kenya. The airline is , however, expected to operate a Malaysia to Kenya flight.
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Kenyan businesswoman Sheila Mutundi during some of her visits across the globe.
Dismissing claims that the project is a publicity stunt, Mutundi reiterated that the airline is a long-term venture and is currently in its preparation phase.
The businesswoman described Raila as an iconic figure whose legacy deserved global recognition. “Raila was a truly remarkable, one-of-a-kind leader, and his name deserves to be on billboards and named after every great thing,” she said.
Asked about the financing behind the ambitious Raila Airways, Mutundi revealed that the project already had backing from local and international investors involved in the airline’s development. However, she added that the venture remained open to additional partnerships as it prepared for launch.
Images and videos of the upcoming airline displayed an interior branded with the political behemoth’s initials, ‘R A O’, with the screens behind each seat brandishing the brand name ‘Raila Airways’.
Addressing concerns about political alignment, Mutundi clarified that, despite the name, the airline is not politically affiliated, saying, “While Raila was a political figure, our airline is not politically affiliated in any way.”
Mutundi had previously attracted public attention after being spotted in Bali alongside George Ruto, the son of President William Samoei Ruto.
Her journey to entrepreneurship reflects humble beginnings, as she revealed her mother sold illicit brew (chang’aa) while her father worked as a security guard.
Despite her family’s financial limitations, Mutundi changed her parents’ fortunes and built them a beautiful home. Today, she globe-trots to destinations like Santorini, Vietnam, and Bali.