Kenyan Officials Praise Diplomatic Efforts in Safe Return of Two Citizens from Uganda
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, has expressed satisfaction with the safe return of two Kenyan nationals who had been missing in Uganda. The successful resolution of the incident highlights the collaborative efforts between Kenya and Uganda in ensuring the safety of citizens.
The two activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, were reported to have been seized by armed men in the Kireka area of Kampala on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. Their sudden disappearance caused concern among their families and prompted diplomatic interventions from both countries.
Mudavadi confirmed that his office issued a formal communication to Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, General Jeje Odongo, requesting clarity on their whereabouts and urging urgent action. He emphasized the importance of continuous, direct communication between Kenya and Uganda throughout the ordeal, which he credited for the swift and peaceful resolution.
“The Government of Kenya welcomes the safe release of our two citizens, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, who had been abducted by armed men around the Kireka area in Kampala, Uganda, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025,” he said in a statement.
He further highlighted that the manner in which the matter was handled reflects the value both neighboring nations place on cooperation and mutual respect. “Following sustained diplomatic engagement between Kenya and Uganda, both governments maintained open and constructive communication that has culminated in the safe release of our nationals,” Mudavadi stated.
The two men were handed over late Friday, November 7, 2025, to Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi. The handover was coordinated with Ugandan officials who escorted the pair to the Busia border, where they were formally received by Busia County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachaunga before arrangements were made for their travel back to their families.
Mudavadi expressed appreciation to Uganda for its role in ensuring the safety and eventual release of the two men. He also commended Kenya’s diplomatic team in Kampala for their vigilance and professionalism.
“The Government of Kenya expresses its deep appreciation to the Government of Uganda for the cooperation extended throughout this process, and to our diplomatic team in Kampala for their commitment and diligence,” he stated.
He reiterated that protection of Kenyan citizens abroad remains one of the top priorities of the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs department. Furthermore, he encouraged Kenyans living, working, or traveling outside the country to maintain regular communication with embassies and consulates to ensure quick intervention when needed.
“The safety and well-being of Kenyan citizens abroad remain a non-negotiable priority for the Government of Kenya. We urge all Kenyans to remain vigilant and stay in touch with our missions for timely updates and assistance,” he said.
On October 1, the two Kenyan activists were reported missing in Uganda under unclear circumstances. According to reports, the duo had traveled to Uganda on Monday, September 29, accompanied by two Ugandan colleagues. They later parted ways in Kampala, with Njagi and Oyoo joining opposition politician Bobi Wine’s campaign trail in Buyende and Kamuli districts.
Njagi was reportedly seen addressing supporters at a campaign rally alongside Bobi Wine. The following day, witnesses said the two Kenyans stopped at a petrol station in Kamuli for car repairs. Around 3 p.m., a grey van carrying four armed individuals allegedly arrived at the station, and the men — one reportedly a woman seated in front — were said to have forced Njagi and Oyoo into the vehicle.