Dream fulfilled as Wanjala catches his first flight

Saleh Wanjala and his mother Everlyne Namusia talk to journalists at Dennis Pritt Lounge Nairobi after their arrival from Bungoma. Businessman Joseph Waswa bought their tickets to Nairobi. (PHOTO: MOSES OMUSULA/ STANDARD)

When Saleh Wanjala hang on a moving helicopter in May, some jokingly said he was trying to stop the pilot from taking away the body of slain businessman Jacob Juma.

However, according to businessman Joseph Waswa, Wanjala, who has since earned himself the name 'James Bond', had been nursing a dream of flying and an opportunity had presented itself.

And yesterday, Waswa helped Wanjala, 41, make his first trip by air when he purchased tickets for him and 11 members of his family, including his wife and mother.

Wanjala landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 8.30am aboard a Kenya Airways flight amid stares from those who knew his story.

His excitement was obvious, his broad smile giving a feeling of accomplishment. He was later escorted by a convoy of  cars to Dennis Pritt Lounge along State House road, where friends and family were waiting.

"Other passengers kept on staring at me. I also think some thought I would jump out of the plane because they had to confirm the windows were properly closed," said Wanjala.

Give anything

The father of four described his experience on the flight as amazing. He said this was a dream come true for him and that he would give anything to have the experience again.

"I enjoyed services on the plane. The staff were friendly and served us drinks. It was worth it," he said.

"I dreamt of boarding a plane and I thank Waswa for making it possible for me. I feel honoured."

"During the helicopter incident, it was very cold up there. This being my first flight, I thought the experience would be the same today when I boarded the plane from Kisumu. However, I really enjoyed being in the clouds and still very comfortable."

Wanjala said the incident at Post Grounds in Bungoma brought him many misfortunes. He was arrested and charged for endangering his life and that of the pilot.

He could not raise a Sh30,000 bail and when Waswa eventually came through for him, the landlord had closed his house over a Sh2,400 debt. He says he still experiences back pains that have kept him from working.

His mother, Everlyn Namusia, is also excited to have boarded a plane for the first time in her life.

Waswa said he wanted to help Wanjala fulfil his dream.

"Youths have ambitions and James Bond's was to be a pilot. When this failed due to poverty, he kept on hoping he would board a plane," said the businessman.