A Kenyan clinical officer held by the al-Qaeda-linked militant group Al-Shabaab has appeared in an undated video appealing to the United Nations, the Kenyan government, and the public to intervene and secure his release after nearly two years in captivity.

Ambrose Kimiti Mwangi was captured on January 10, 2024, after a helicopter he was travelling in made an emergency landing in Al-Shabaab-controlled territory in Somalia’s Galgaduud region.

The United Nations contracted the aircraft, which was on a humanitarian medical evacuation mission at the time of the incident.

Following the crash, Kimiti and several colleagues were taken hostage by the militants. Since then, little public information has emerged regarding negotiations or efforts to secure their release.

Plea captured on video

In the video released, Kimiti directly addresses UN Secretary-General António Guterres, urging swift intervention. “I urge you, Sec Gen, to secure our release and intervene on our behalf as soon as possible,” he says.

He also appeals to President William Ruto to use diplomatic channels to facilitate negotiations. “It is also my urgent appeal to our president, William Ruto: please use your influence to negotiate for our release; your effort will make a great difference to our case,” Kimiti states.

Addressing Kenyans, the detained medic calls for national solidarity, noting his humanitarian role in Somalia. “The people of Kenya, I need your support today more than ever. I came here to provide medical assistance and humanitarian support. Do not forget me,” he says.

Kimiti further expresses frustration over what he describes as a lack of progress in efforts to free the hostages. “We believed we were serving a humanitarian cause, but the United Nations has failed to work toward securing our freedom,” he added.

Family appeals intensify

The video has renewed anguish and appeals from Kimiti’s family in Nyandarua County, who say they last communicated with him in early January 2024.

His mother, Margaret Wairimu, appealed for government intervention, saying the family feels powerless. “That video alone cannot help him; that is why we are pleading with the government to help us, and because we cannot reach them, we ask your help,” she said.

His brother, Martin Mwangi, urged the public to amplify calls for Kimiti’s release. “We are asking everyone to amplify this campaign to bring Ambrose back home safely; we miss his jokes, generosity, and friendship,” he said.

Background and Current Status

Kimiti has previously worked in conflict zones, including Mali and Afghanistan. His family describes him as a committed humanitarian driven by compassion and service.

In a statement issued on December 25, 2025, the family called on the Kenyan government, the United Nations, and international partners to intensify efforts for his immediate release. They also urged responsible media reporting, citing concerns over the safety of all hostages.