Soldier captured in 2016 by al Shabaab is still alive

A family in Uasin Gishu county is hanging on to hope after learning their kin, a soldier whose fate had been uncertain for eight years, is still alive.

Abdullahi Issa Mohamed, 61, was captured by al Shabaab militants on January 15, 2016, during an attack on El-Adde military camp in Somalia.

Issa’s family is appealing to the government to intensify efforts to bring him back home.

Issa was serving as part of the ninth battalion of Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) deployed to restore peace and stability.

In a heartbreaking video shared online, Issa made a plea to be reunited with his family, stirring mixed emotions among his relatives, neighbours and the public.

Many expressed joy at the news that he is still alive, coupled with sorrow for his continued suffering in captivity.

In 2011, Kenya launched the ‘Operation Linda Nchi’, a military incursion aimed at countering al Shabaab attacks and improving border security.

A year later, in 2012, Kenya formally joined the African Union Mission to Somalia (Amisom), aimed at enhancing regional collaboration to stabilise Somalia.

Since then, KDF has maintained control over parts of southern Somalia, particularly the Gedo Region, as part of its mission to combat al Shabaab and bolster 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 exemplifies these hardships, as his family has been left in anguish, clinging to hope for his safe return.

According to Katrina Abdullahi Issa, Issa’s eldest daughter, the family was forced to conduct a symbolic funeral after six years of mourning and no communication from their father.

“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,” said Katrina.

Katrina revealed the immense psychological toll her father’s absence has had on the family.

During a prayer session organised by Issa’s family at his home 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 appealed passionately: “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, emphasized patience and faith while 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 held captive by al Shabaab.

Issa’s family hope 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.