A viral photo in Bali sparked rumors of romance, but model Sheila Mutundi has turned the speculation into a launchpad for a bold aviation venture. Mutundi has unveiled plans for "Raila Airways," a tribute airline dedicated to the late opposition leader Raila Odinga, aiming to connect Kenya with Asian markets.

The genesis of this ambitious project lies in a chance encounter that captured the nation's imagination. In May 2025, a photograph of Mutundi with George Ruto, the President's son, surfaced from a trip to Bali, Indonesia. While the image ignited a firestorm of tabloid gossip regarding a potential relationship, Mutundi has firmly clarified that the meeting was purely coincidental. "We met by chance while I was with a male friend," she stated, dispelling the dating rumors that had subjected her to intense online scrutiny.

A Legacy in the Skies

Moving beyond the tabloids, Mutundi is channeling her energy into a project she describes as a "living honor" to Raila Odinga. The proposed airline, Raila Airways, is not merely a branding exercise but is pitched as a serious commercial entity designed to bridge the connectivity gap between East Africa and Southeast Asia. The project's Instagram page has already amassed over 30,000 followers, signalling early public curiosity and support.

• The Vision: Mutundi envisions the airline as a conduit for trade and tourism, leveraging the growing economic ties between the two regions.
• The Backlash: The model acknowledged the emotional and financial toll of the online harassment she faced following the Bali photo, describing it as a "steep price for visibility."
• The Tribute: Naming the airline after Odinga is a calculated move to honor his legacy of connecting people, although it remains to be seen how the Odinga family and political estate will engage with the brand.

Navigating Public Scrutiny

The transition from social media personality to aviation entrepreneur is fraught with skepticism. Industry analysts question the capital-intensive nature of starting an airline, especially for a newcomer. However, Mutundi remains undeterred, citing her resilience in the face of cyberbullying as proof of her mettle. She expressed sympathy for Kenyans struggling under the current economic climate, positioning her venture as a beacon of hope and innovation.

As the conversation shifts from who she was seen with to what she is building, Mutundi is proving that she can control her own narrative. Raila Airways may be in its infancy, but its founder has already demonstrated an ability to command the spotlight.