The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.
Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
The GROW loan project is a five-year program set to end in December 2027. The Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project is a Government of Uganda Project, funded by the World Bank, implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development and the Private Sector Foundation Uganda in all districts, municipalities, and cities.
On August 28, 2024, GROW launched an initiative that will offer quick and affordable loans to women entrepreneurs. The Grow Loan is available at Stanbic Bank and Equity Bank, Finance Trust Bank, DFCU Bank, Centenary Bank, and Post Bank.