Kenya Airways has confirmed the unconditional release of two of its employees, who were detained by military authorities in Kinshasa since April 19, 2024.

In a statement on Monday, Allan Kilavuka, the Group Managing Director & CEO, expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their efforts in securing the release of the detained employees.

"We wish to thank all those who worked tirelessly for the release of our innocent colleagues. Special thanks to KQ colleagues who have been on the ground in Kinshasa and those in Nairobi working to secure their release," said Kilavuka.

The airline extended its appreciation to the Government of Kenya, particularly acknowledging the leadership of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, and the Kenyan embassy in Kinshasa for their support throughout the ordeal.

"We want to reiterate that our employees are innocent and were only carrying out their duties in strict adherence to the laid-out procedures. We stand by their innocence and will continue to support them," Kilavuka emphasized.

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Following the resolution of the detainment issue and with the necessary groundwork established, Kenya Airways announced the resumption of flights to Kinshasa starting from May 8, 2024.

This decision comes as a relief to both the airline and its valued customers.

"We look forward to serving our valued customers once again," stated Kilavuka, highlighting the importance of reconnecting air travel between Nairobi and Kinshasa.

Kenya Airways assured its commitment to ongoing cooperation with investigating agencies and relevant government entities in both the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Kenya.

The release of the detained employees marks a significant milestone for Kenya Airways, bringing an end to a challenging period and paving the way for the restoration of regular flight operations to Kinshasa.