A family in Uasin Gishu County is holding on to hope after discovering that their relative, Abdullahi Issa Mohamed, a soldier whose fate remained uncertain for eight years, is still alive. Issa, 61, was captured by al Shabaab militants on January 15, 2016, during an attack on the El-Adde military camp in Somalia.
Issa’s family is appealing to the Kenyan government to intensify efforts to bring him back home. He was serving as part of the ninth battalion of the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF), which was deployed to restore peace and stability in the region.
In an emotional video shared online, Issa pleaded to be reunited with his family, stirring a mix of emotions among his relatives, neighbors, and the public. Many expressed joy at the news of his survival, but also sorrow over his continued suffering in captivity.
In 2011, Kenya launched Operation Linda Nchi, a military incursion aimed at countering al Shabaab attacks and improving border security. A year later, Kenya formally joined the African Union Mission to Somalia (Amisom), enhancing regional collaboration to stabilize Somalia. Since then, KDF has maintained control over parts of southern Somalia, particularly in the Gedo Region, as part of its mission to combat al Shabaab and promote political and security stability.
However, this mission has come with significant challenges, including loss of lives, abductions, and the enduring suffering of families left behind. Issa’s case is a stark reminder of these hardships, as his family has been left in anguish, clinging to the hope of his safe return.
Katrina Abdullahi Issa, Issa’s eldest daughter, shared the painful reality of the family’s struggle. “To my father, if Allah has kept you alive all this time, don’t give up. We are praying for you. Soon you will come home, InshaAllah. I don’t know how you have been living as a captive, but you will return, and we will prepare your favorite meals and take care of you,” Katrina said.
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Katrina revealed the immense psychological toll her father’s absence has had on the family. During a prayer session organized by Issa’s family in Maile Nne, on the outskirts of Eldoret City, religious leaders urged the government to use all means to secure his release.
Sheikh Abdikadir Mallim made a passionate appeal: “We call on the President and his Defence Minister to intervene. Issa must be brought home. He has suffered while defending and protecting Kenya.”
Sheikh Abubakr Bini, who led the prayer session, emphasized patience and faith, urging the government to show compassion. “This is a heartbreaking matter. We appeal to our leaders to approach it with empathy and urgency. We continue to pray to Allah to bring Issa back safely,” said Bini.
According to the family, al Shabaab has expressed willingness to engage in negotiations with the government to secure Issa’s release. “We don’t have direct communication with al Shabaab, but we have learned they are ready to talk. This is a rare chance the government must not waste,” a family member said.
Reports indicate that six other KDF soldiers are also held captive by al Shabaab. Issa’s family hopes that efforts to secure his release could mark the beginning of a broader initiative to rescue other soldiers. For years, KDF personnel have worked tirelessly in Somalia to promote peace, often paying the ultimate price.
