Agony Over Missing Doctor in Somalia — Family Makes Emotional Appeal to President Ruto and UN
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The family of Kenyan doctor Ambrose Kimiti Mwangi is in deep distress after nearly two years without clear information about his fate following his capture in Somalia while on a United Nations medical evacuation mission. The plight of the medic has sparked fresh appeals to both the Kenyan government and the UN for urgent action to secure his release.
Dr. Kimiti, a clinical officer with years of humanitarian experience, was part of a UN‑contracted team flying a helicopter on January 10, 2024, when it made an emergency landing in territory controlled by the militant group al‑Shabaab in Somalia’s Galgaduud region. He and others on board were taken hostage, and little has been known about their status until a recently leaked video surfaced showing him alive and pleading for help.
Heartbreaking Video and Renewed Hope
In the undated video circulating online, Dr. Kimiti addresses UN Secretary‑General António Guterres, urging the world body to intensify efforts to secure his freedom. He also makes a poignant appeal to President William Ruto, highlighting the critical need for Kenyan diplomatic involvement.
“I urge you, Mr. President, please use your influence to negotiate for our release. Your effort will make a big difference,” Kimiti says in the footage.
His family, from Nyandarua County, described the video as a bittersweet confirmation that he is still alive. They last saw him in December 2023 before he departed for duty — and have heard nothing until the recent recording emerged.
Family’s Emotional Appeal
Dr. Kimiti’s mother, Margaret Wairimu, and his siblings have intensified their appeal to Kenyan authorities, the UN and international partners to act swiftly. They fear that without diplomatic pressure and more focused intervention, the hostage situation could drag on indefinitely.
His sister described the family’s anguish and uncertainty, urging the public and media to keep his plight in the spotlight so that efforts to bring him home are not forgotten.
Despite being a dedicated health professional who has served in conflict zones, including Mali and Afghanistan, Dr. Kimiti now finds himself a victim of the very violence he worked to alleviate.
Calls for Action
The renewed appeal comes as the Kenyan government is being urged to raise the matter through diplomatic channels with Somalia and international partners. Family members have expressed frustration over what they describe as limited communication from both the UN and Kenyan authorities since the abduction.
As Christmas and year‑end observances unfold, the focus on his case reflects not only a desperate hope for his return but also broader concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers in high‑risk environments.
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