The family of Kenyan doctor Ambrose Kimiti Mwangi has renewed its urgent appeal for his release, more than 18 months after al-Shabaab militants seized him in Somalia.
Kimiti was working on a United Nations medical evacuation mission at the time of his capture.
Dr. Kimiti, an experienced medical professional employed by a British contractor working with the UN, was last seen on January 10, 2024.
The helicopter he was aboard made an emergency landing in Galgaduud, a region in central Somalia under al-Shabaab control.
Kimiti’s Viral Video Appeal
Recently, a video surfaced on social media showing Kimiti alive.
In the video, the doctor pleads for intervention from key global and national leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Kenyan President William Ruto.
Kimiti states that he and other crew members have been held for over a year and a half, emphasising the mission’s humanitarian purpose.
He urges the UN to uphold its responsibility to protect personnel and contractors abducted during official missions.
He also appeals to President Ruto and the Kenyan public to amplify their plight and advocate for their release.
18 Months In Captivity
Nairobi News understands Kimiti’s family, from Leshau Pondo Ward in Nyandarua County, last saw him in late December 2023 before his deployment to Somalia.
They had no contact with him after the emergency landing and only learned of his well-being through the recent viral video.
The family reports infrequent and often unresponsive communication from both the United Nations and Kenyan authorities.
Speaking to members of the fourth estate, his mother, Margaret Wairimu, and siblings expressed frustration with the perceived lack of diplomatic engagement and slow progress in securing his freedom.
They are calling on government officials, international partners, humanitarian organisations, religious leaders, and the public to raise awareness and push for more decisive action.
The family emphasised the emotional and financial toll of the prolonged uncertainty, particularly on Kimiti’s elderly mother, who has experienced serious health problems during this ordeal.
They highlighted the doctor ‘s dedication as a medic with a history of service in high-risk environments, including conflict zones.
While the Kenyan government and the UN have not formally responded to the video appeal, Kenyan lawmakers have raised the issue in Parliament, urging increased diplomatic efforts and regular family updates on the progress of securing his release.
As of now, no group has publicly stated specific demands for Kimiti’s freedom.
The situation remains precarious, underscoring the ongoing dangers faced by humanitarian workers in unstable regions.
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