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.
This year's COP29 is particularly notable as it has gathered a diverse group of stakeholders from nearly 200 countries to address pressing climate challenges and advance global commitments under the Paris Agreement, with an expected attendance of about 50,000 participants that include government officials, negotiators, media, and observers under the theme In Solidarity for a Green World.