Gor Mahia appoint Eliud Owalo as acting patron after Raila demise

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October 16, 2025

Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Gor Mahia Football Club has announced the appointment of club assistant patron Eliud Owalo as its new patron following the death of their long-serving patron, the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.

In a statement released on Thursday, October 16, 2025, and signed by club chairman Ambrose Rachier, Gor Mahia described the passing of Odinga as a great loss to the club and the wider football fraternity.

Odinga, fondly referred to as “Baba” and “Agwambo,” had been a steadfast supporter and patron of Gor Mahia for many years, playing a significant role in nurturing the success of K’Ogalo and national stature.

“To avoid the vacuum created thereby, the Gor Mahia Executive Committee wishes to notify the general public, the football fraternity in general, and Gor Mahia Football Club members in particular, that the Deputy Patron Hon. Eliud Owalo FHRM, FESK, EGH will act as the club patron with immediate effect,” read part of the statement.

Gor Mahia’s management expressed its appreciation for Odinga’s long-term commitment, leadership, and love for the team, noting that his contribution went beyond football to matters of unity, culture, and community empowerment.

Owalo, who has served as the Deputy Patron, will now take over the role of guiding the club’s leadership and development efforts.

His appointment is seen as a step aimed at ensuring continuity and stability within the K’Ogalo family during this difficult period of mourning.

The statement, dated and stamped October 16, 2025, was signed by Chairman Ambrose Rachier on behalf of the Gor Mahia Executive Committee.

Odinga’s death has cast a shadow over Kenya’s football scene, with tributes continuing to pour in from fans, players, and officials who remember him as an ardent supporter of the beautiful game and a unifying figure across sporting divides.

Meanwhile, the Pamoja CHAN 2024 Local Organising Committee (LOC) of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania has sent its heartfelt condolences to the people of Kenya following the passing of the country’s opposition leader, Raila Odinga.

In a joint statement released on Thursday, October 16, 2025, the three LOC chairmen, comprising Leodegar Tenga of Tanzania, Peter Ogwang of Uganda, and Nicholas Musonye of Kenya, expressed deep sorrow to the people of Kenya and the Odinga family, describing Raila as a symbolic figure whose influence extended beyond politics into sports and regional unity.

Raila Odinga’s body viewing at Kasarani resumes after chaotic disruption

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

Members of the public had their chance of viewing the body of opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga after order had been restored, shortly after the surging crowds were scattered by the police at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The viewing was initially scheduled to happen at the Parliament Buildings, but due to the surging crowds, the government announced that the activity would take place at Kasarani Stadium due to the surging crowds in the Nairobi Central Business District after Raila Odinga’s repatriation from India on Thursday morning.

After order had been restored, it was President William Ruto who led the nation in the public viewing of the body of Raila Odinga at Kasarani Stadium, followed by Raila Odinga’s wife, Mama Ida Odinga, and her family, former President Uhuru Kenyatta and other top government officials.

This followed a chaotic scene in which thousands of Odinga’s supporters tried to storm the VIP section, where his body was lying in state for public viewing.

The crowd, seemingly growing impatient after hours of waiting, began hurling chairs and stones at security personnel manning the restricted section.

The disturbance, which occurred shortly after 3:00 p.m., prompted police officers to fire warning shots in the air and deploy teargas canisters in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

As a result, the stadium grounds were temporarily cleared, with at least two individuals reportedly shot by security officers.

Oburu: Raila to be buried at private ceremony attended ‘only by few people’

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John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

The late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga will be buried in a private funeral service at his Opoda farm in Bondo, Siaya County.

The solemn ceremony, scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025, will only be attended by a select number of family members and close friends in line with his wishes.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga delivered the message to residents of Opoda on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after arriving at his rural home to brief them on the passing of his younger brother and to outline the funeral arrangements.

Oburu explained that the funeral will begin with a ceremony at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), after which a few chosen individuals will proceed to the Opoda home for the private burial.

He further revealed that Raila will be laid to rest beside his late parents, as stated in his will.

“This is what I came here to do, and I’ve given them the programme, the programme which will end up with a function, with a ceremony, a burial ceremony at the Jaramogi Oginga University of Science and Technology, and later on, Raila will be buried next to our mom and dad. It will be in a private burial, which will be attended only by a few people,” Oburu stated.

The senator, who is part of the funeral steering committee, appealed to residents and supporters across the country to remain calm and peaceful as the family prepares to give the ODM leader a dignified farewell.

He emphasised that while the burial itself will be private, the public will still have an opportunity to pay their last respects during the official viewing sessions.

“Raila is no longer with us, and my people are aware, and I’ve told them so. Now, secondly, I have come here to be with my people and tell them the program which has been planned, and I want to appeal to them to be peaceful and give Raila a dignified send-off, which he deserves as a dignified son of this land,” he said.

Meanwhile, the public viewing that had initially been scheduled for Kisumu’s Moi Stadium has been moved to Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo.

The change is part of the revised funeral programme coordinated by the National State Funeral Committee.

Public Viewing of Raila Odinga’s Body at Kasarani Stadium Begins

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

The public viewing of the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga commenced at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, led by the family and attended by the nation’s top leadership.

The solemn ceremony saw the late former Prime Minister’s casket, draped in the Kenyan flag and adorned with the orange headscarf of the ODM party, a color Raila passionately identified with throughout his political career.

The viewing was led by the Odinga family, including Mama Ida Odinga, Raila’s widow, alongside their children, Raila Junior and Rosemary Odinga, who stood by the casket to receive condolences from mourners.

President William Ruto viewing the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

President William Ruto, who received Raila’s body at JKIA earlier in the day, was among the first dignitaries to view the body at Kasarani. He was accompanied by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta viewing the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri, who had been instrumental in managing the earlier security situation at JKIA, also paid his respects to the fallen leader.

The ODM party leadership turned out in force to honor their long-time leader. Among those who viewed the body were ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Governor Simba Arati, Junet Mohamed, Millie Odhiambo, and other senior party officials.

Several Cabinet Secretaries were also present, including Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Education CS Julius Ogamba, ICT CS William Kabogo, Health CS Aden Duale and Sports CS Davis Chirchir, among others, who filed past the casket to honor the former Prime Minister.

Kenya Defence Forces chaplains conducted prayers during the viewing ceremony, offering spiritual comfort to the bereaved family and the nation.

As of the time of filing this report, thousands of mourners were still waiting on the Kasarani grounds for their turn to view the body and pay their last respects to the former Prime Minister.

A few civilians viewing the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The Kasarani viewing comes after a day marked by dramatic incidents. The public viewing had initially been scheduled for Parliament Buildings but was relocated to Kasarani due to overwhelming crowds.

Earlier in the day, chaos erupted at the stadium when police fired teargas canisters to clear mourners from areas designated for senior dignitaries, triggering a stampede that left several people injured, including journalists covering the event.

The Kenya Red Cross has been providing first aid and psychosocial support to those affected, with teams stationed along key routes and at the venue.

Why Oburu Oginga Had to Fly to Raila’s Bondo Home Despite His Body Viewing at Kasarani

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

The arrival of Dr. Oburu Oginga at the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s ancestral home in Bondo on Thursday, October 16, 2025, marked a significant cultural milestone. He officially communicated to the community that their son had passed away.

Dr. Oburu flew to Bondo to fulfill a critical traditional responsibility: officially opening the home to mourners and announcing the death to the clan and villagers, a duty that would typically fall to Raila’s wife, Mama Ida Odinga.

However, due to time constraints that prevented Mama Ida from traveling to Bondo immediately, the responsibility to perform this essential cultural rite was transferred to Jaramogi Oginga’s eldest son, Dr. Oburu.

Upon arrival, Dr. Oburu was immediately engaged with elders, community members, and friends to brief them on the deliberations of the national funeral planning committee, ensuring that the local community understood the arrangements for the coming days.

The meeting brought Raila’s peers, friends, and relatives together to discuss the funeral programme and coordinate local preparations with national arrangements.

Church officials from the Diocese of Bondo, representing the Anglican Church, were also present at the gathering. The clergy’s presence is significant as the funeral service will be conducted by the Anglican Church in accordance with Raila’s faith and family traditions.

Oburu also urged the people to maintain peace and allow them to lay Odinga to rest within 72 hours, as it was his will.

“I have come here to be with my people and to appeal to them to be peaceful and give Raila a dignified sendoff that he deserves,” Oburu stated.

According to local customs, Raila’s house remained closed throughout Wednesday and Thursday, awaiting the formal announcement of his passing to the community.

As tradition dictates, the home could be officially opened to mourners only after Oburu’s arrival.

Following the briefing sessions, Dr. Oburu and the elders were expected to proceed to the Oginga family home to select the burial site and commence grave digging in preparation for Sunday’s burial ceremony.

The traditional preparations in Bondo run parallel to the elaborate State Funeral programme announced by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who chairs the State Funeral Committee.

Raila’s body arrived in Nairobi on Thursday at 8:30 am from Mumbai and was received by President William Ruto at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

However, the reception was marred by a security breach when mourners gained unauthorized access to restricted areas, forcing a two-hour suspension of airport operations.

The public viewing, initially planned for Parliament Buildings, was relocated to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, due to overwhelming crowds.

The event was later disrupted when police fired teargas to control the massive turnout, triggering a stampede that left several people injured.

According to the official programme, a State Funeral service will be held on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo Stadium, bringing together dignitaries worldwide. The body will then be taken to the family’s Karen home for an overnight stay.

On Saturday, October 18, Raila’s body will travel to Kisumu for public viewing at Mamboleo stadium between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., before proceeding by road to Bondo for an overnight stay.

The burial ceremony, which will be conducted by the Anglican Church on Sunday, October 19, is scheduled for Raila’s Opoda farm in Bondo, Siaya County.

Senate Pays Tribute To The Late Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

The Senate has held a Special Sitting this Thursday afternoon to honour the memory and legacy of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga who passed away on Wednesday morning in India.

Through a Motion, moved by Deputy Minority Leader Sen. Enoch Wambua (Kitui) and seconded by Deputy Majority Leader Sen. Tabitha Karanja (Nakuru) Senators were invited to pay tribute to a leader described as a towering figure in Kenya’s political and democratic journey.

Senators noted that the late Odinga served as the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya between 2008 and 2013 and previously held various senior positions in government including Cabinet Minister for Energy, Roads, Public Works and Housing and as a long-serving Member of Parliament for Lang’ata Constituency serving four consecutive parliamentary terms from 1992 to 2013.

The Motion described Mr. Odinga’s public service career as one that spanned over four decades, during which he played a pivotal role in Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy, the advancement of constitutional reforms and the deepening of good governance, accountability and inclusivity leadership.

Sen. Wambua appreciated his lifelong commitment to the ideals of democracy, freedom and justice, his central role in the enactment of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, his tireless advocacy for devolution and equitable development, his dedication to reconciliation and peace-building through the 2008 National Accord and Reconciliation Act.

The House further recognised his continental influence, noting that as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, he championed regional integration, cross-border infrastructure connectivity and the continent’s socioeconomic advancement.

The Motion hailed the late Odinga as a symbol of resilience and courage, dedicating his life to the struggle for democratic space, social justice, social and economic transformation, youth empowerment, national unity, even in the face of great personal sacrifice and his enduring legacy as a visionary statesman who inspired generations of leaders across Kenya and the African continent.

The Senate further expressed its profound sorrow and conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the people of Kenya on the demise of Mr. Odinga and resolved to record its sincere appreciation of his outstanding service, monumental contribution to the Nation and Africa and his indelible legacy as a patriot, democrat and visionary leader.

In an official communication to the Senate, Temporary Speaker Sen. Abdul Haji (Garissa) paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister, commending his outstanding contribution to Kenya’s development and democracy.

Sen. Haji highlighted several landmark projects that the late Odinga helped initiate including the Thika Superhighway, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and major bypass roads in Nairobi and other parts of the country. He also lauded Odinga’s efforts in the restoration of the Mau Forest, describing them as pivotal in safeguarding the nation’s environment.

The communication further hailed the late Odinga’s unwavering commitment to democracy and good governance.

“The late Odinga remained steadfast despite electoral setbacks in promoting peaceful and democratic processes,” read part of the message.

He added, “The late Prime Minister set aside his political ambitions for the stability and survival of the nation.”

The Temporary Speaker then led Senators in observing a moment of silence in honour of the fallen statesman.

Kenya Airways Unveils Crew Who Flew Raila Odinga’s Body from India

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

Kenya Airways has hailed the crew members who were on board the flight that brought back the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga from India.

In a statement on Thursday, October 16, the national carrier commended its crew for their professionalism and calm demeanor during the journey.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our crew who safely flew back the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga and the accompanying delegation from Mumbai.

“Your professionalism, composure, and dedication in this solemn duty embody the true spirit of service and care that defines us,” the statement read.

Kenya Airway said it was deeply honoured to have been part of the process of returning the late leader to his homeland.

“As #ThePrideofAfrica, we remain honoured to have played a part in bringing one of Kenya’s great sons home,” the statement added.

Earlier Thursday, a section of supporters gathered outside Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, October 16, breached the VIP gates and gained access to the runway moments after the plane carrying the remains of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga landed.

According to videos seen by Uzalendo News, the situation quickly turned chaotic as the ODM supporters scattered across the airport grounds.

The crowd appeared to have overpower security personnel stationed at the gates, forcing their way into the highly secured area.

The unexpected breach prompted a swift response from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), with Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri seen on site attempting to calm the crowd.

The intrusion occurred just minutes before Raila’s casket was offloaded from the aircraft to the gun carriage.

As such, operations at JKIA were suspended for two hours.

Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) announced that flights and other airport operations had been temporarily halted to allow security teams to regain control of the situation.

“Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) informs the public that operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya,” the statement read.

KCAA explained that a large crowd of mourners had managed to gain unauthorized access to restricted areas of the airport, forcing authorities to act to ensure safety.

“A large number of mourners gained access to restricted areas, prompting a precautionary closure to allow security teams to restore order and ensure safety,” the statement added.

Hours after the suspension, normal operations were restored.

In a statement, KCAA announced that the airport has been declared safe for the resumption of flights and passenger services after security teams successfully resolved the situation.

“The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) wishes to inform the public and all aviation stakeholders that normal operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been fully restored following the earlier temporary suspension,” the statement read.

TSC Postpones Teachers Promotion Interviews, Sets New Dates After Raila Odinga’s Death

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced new dates for promotional interviews that were initially planned for Friday, October 17.

The new development follows the government’s declaration of a public holiday to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement on Thursday, October 16, the Commission confirmed that it had suspended the scheduled sessions in respect of the national mourning period.

“Following the Government’s declaration of Friday, 17 October, 2025 as a Public Holiday in honour of the late Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, the Teachers Service Commission has suspended all promotional interviews previously scheduled for Friday, 17 October, 2025,” the statement read.

TSC further indicated that the affected sessions will now take place next week across three working days, starting Tuesday, October 23.

“In light of this, please note the affected interviews will be rescheduled across the three working days, commencing Tuesday, 21 October through Thursday, 23rd October, 2025.

“Your respective Regional Director will communicate the revised schedule and logistical details in due course,” the statement added.

Elsewhere, on Wednesday, October 15, the Hindu Council of Kenya has called on its members to tone down this year’s Diwali celebrations as a mark of respect for Raila.

In a statement, the council advised that the festival be observed in a more subdued manner to honour Raila’s memory.

“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of the former Prime Minister of Kenya, Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, on 15th October 2025. His impactful leadership and dedication to the nation have left an enduring legacy that commands our deepest respect and reflection.

“The Hindu Council of Kenya respectfully advises all member institutions to observe the forthcoming Diwali festivities with restraint and decorum, tempering celebrations as a mark of tribute to the late leader’s memory,” the statement read.

The council urged all Hindu institutions and devotees across the country to avoid the use of fireworks and crackers during the mourning period.

“We would also request members to desist from using fireworks and crackers during this mourning period. We appreciate your understanding and support in honoring this significant national loss with dignity and sensitivity,” the statement added.

Police fire teargas at mourners during Raila Odinga’s public viewing at Kasarani

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

Chaos erupted at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after police fired teargas canisters at mourners who had gathered to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, triggering a stampede that left several people injured.

Live coverage seen by Uzalendo News showed dramatic scenes as the stadium, which had been packed with thousands of mourners, was left nearly empty following the teargas incident.

Voices could be heard commanding “Get Out!” as panicked crowds scrambled for safety.

The incident occurred as police attempted to clear mourners from areas designated for senior dignitaries and government officials who were expected to attend the viewing ceremony.

Several journalists covering the event were injured during the chaos, with footage showing people lying on the ground with their hands covering their heads while others stepped over them in desperate attempts to escape the teargas.

Police officers were seen forcefully pushing people to leave the stadium as the situation deteriorated rapidly.

Gunfire shots were also heard as security forces worked to disperse the massive crowd.

The body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has arrived at the Kasarani Stadium, escorted by military and police officers, with supporters also accompanying the procession.

Several people have been injured as crowds gathered along Parliament Road and at Cabanas during the procession of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to Kasarani Stadium.

The Kenya Red Cross has dispatched emergency teams to attend to those who sustained injuries.

“We have continued to attend to injuries sustained as crowds gathered along Parliament Road and at Cabanas during the procession of the late former Prime Minister to Kasarani Stadium, in collaboration with E-Plus Ambulances.

Flight operations have also resumed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after being suspended for two hours following the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga from India at 9:30 a.m.

In a statement dated Thursday, October 16, 2025, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) advised passengers with flights scheduled during the temporary closure to contact their respective airlines for updated flight information and alternative arrangements.

“Passengers with flights scheduled during the closure are encouraged to contact their respective airlines for updated flight information and arrangements.

KAA thanks all travelers, airlines, and the general public for their patience and understanding during this brief disruption. We remain committed to maintaining safe, secure, and efficient airport operations at JKIA,” read the statement.

A crowd has begun gathering at Kasarani Stadium after the government announced changes to the venue for the body viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, moving it from Parliament Buildings.

The government cited the large turnout at Parliament, noting that the venue could not accommodate the many members of the public who wished to view the ODM leader’s body.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to proceed to Kasarani Stadium for the viewing. Please note that heavy traffic is expected along Thika Road and adjoining routes leading to Kasarani,” said UDA.

Leaders who have arrived at Kasarani Stadium include Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Energy CS Davis Chirchir and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch.

UAE Airline Flydubai Launches Direct Flights Between Dubai and Nairobi

By

John Mutiso

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October 16, 2025

Dubai based carrier Flydubai marked a new chapter in Kenya’s aviation sector yesterday as its inaugural flight touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), carrying 80 passengers.

The airline is the fifth international carrier to launch a new route to Kenya in the recent past.

The new service will operate four-weekly flights to Nairobi, complementing the airline’s existing daily service to Mombasa, increasing Flydubai’s total weekly flights to Kenya significantly.

The government and tourism stakeholders hailed the new route as a critical link between East Africa and one of the world’s most important commercial centres.

In a speech read by the Kenya Tourism Board’s Acting CEO, Allan Njoroge, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasized the route’s strategic importance:

“Dubai today stands as one of the world’s most important aviation and business hubs, connecting destinations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Through this new service, Flydubai is bringing that connectivity closer to Kenya, allowing our businesspeople and entrepreneurs easier access to international markets and offering seamless connections for travellers.”

CS Miano noted that the timing aligns perfectly with Kenya’s strategic focus on the Middle Eastern market, which has demonstrated remarkable growth.

Kenya welcomed over 42,000 visitors from the Middle East in 2024, representing a 15 percent increase from the previous year, with the UAE accounting for a large share of that growth.

“Travellers from the Gulf region seek authenticity, adventure and high-quality experiences which Kenya offers in abundance,” Miano added, stating that the new service is expected to enhance Kenya’s goal of reaching 5.5 million visitors by 2027.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at Flydubai, termed the maiden flight into Nairobi a “major boost to trade and tourism” for Kenya.

“Kenya has a lot of potential and with this new route, we are optimistic of increasing the frequency of flights to daily for both Mombasa and Nairobi,” Al Ghaith said, underscoring the long-term commitment to the market.

Nicanor Sabula, CEO of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), welcomed the increased air connectivity and challenged the industry to capitalize on it.

“This is the fifth airline this year only, it is commendable. I now want to encourage our travel agents to take full advantage of these new opportunities to package the destination better, in order to attract more travellers.”

Flydubai’s Nairobi entry follows the successful launch of its Mombasa service, which began in January 2024 and has already expanded to daily operations. The airline now serves 12 destinations across Africa.