By Kennedy Nalyanya
Nairobi/Kampala — A tense, 38-day disappearance ordeal has ended in triumph for Kenyan activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, who were released by Ugandan authorities and safely handed over to the Kenyan Embassy.
The activists are now back on Kenyan territory, marking a significant win for regional diplomacy and human rights advocacy after weeks of global pressure.
Njagi and Oyoo’s freedom was secured late last night after "lengthy engagements." They were received by Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, and escorted by Ugandan government officials to the Busia border town.
At approximately 1:00 AM, they crossed the border and were officially received by Busia County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachaunga.
Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing'Oei confirmed the news on X: "Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo are free and on Kenyan territory... Deeply grateful for the efforts by different actors who made this outcome possible."
The activists have since recorded statements and been transported to Kisumu, where arrangements are underway to secure a flight to Nairobi for their final homecoming.
While the duo are reportedly in stable health, they were described as visibly emaciated after their prolonged detention. The first critical step they took was contacting their families to assure them of their safety.
Their release and safe handling were heavily supported by human rights groups Vocal Africa and Amnesty International, who played a central role in advocating for their well-being throughout their disappearance.
The activists went missing on October 1, 2025, in Uganda under highly unclear circumstances. Their disappearance was widely linked to their association with the campaign trail of Ugandan opposition politician Bobi Wine in the Buyende and Kamuli districts.
The development follows weeks of mounting diplomatic frustration:
Silence from Kampala: Kenyan Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi had formally reached out to his Ugandan counterpart but had received no response. Mudavadi expressed "profound concern" over the silence nearly a month after their initial communication.
Legal Setback: The Kenyan government and human rights lawyers faced an earlier setback when a Ugandan High Court dismissed a habeas corpus application seeking their production, amid claims they were being held in military custody due to their alleged campaigning for Bobi Wine.
The successful release now closes a strained chapter in Kenya-Uganda relations, highlighting the critical role of coordinated diplomacy and relentless advocacy by civil society across East Africa.
Click to Watch: Bob Njagi and Oyoo Arrested
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