Members of Bible Israel Church in the Majengo district on the outskirts of Narok town could not hide their joy after a woman returned home after 17 years.

 Anne Wangoi, now 27, went missing at age ten after a domestic disagreement in 2006. her mother had lost all hope of ever getting her daughter back.

PHOTO | COURTESY Girl Who Went Missing Returns Home After 17 Years

Despite life's struggles and endless efforts to find her daughter in churches, Wanjiku recalls with excitement that meeting her daughter is the happiest moment of her life.

Wangoi, who appeared to be holding back excitement for a sense of belonging, expressed joy at finally being at home.

She recalls flying to Nairobi with a friend, where they split ways. Still, a kind stranger drove her to Othaya town, Nyeri County, to the Bewomi Beautiful Worship Ministry rehabilitation center headed by Joseph Muthendeki.

Wangoi recalls how, despite life's unforeseen hardships, she was lucky to get an education from primary to secondary school, hospitality, and sewing abilities.

PHOTO | COURTESY Girl Who Went Missing Returns Home After 17 Years

Her prayer now that she has a trade is to be employed to help her elderly mother reap the benefits of her achievement.

Mary Njoki, who served as a chief chef alongside Wangoi at the Silent Lodge in Othaya Nyeri town in 2020, recalls pushing Wangoi to return to her family in Narok.

Lydia Wairimu, Njoki's mother, and Hellen Murunya, a Masikonte Primary School teacher, took on the challenge of identifying Wangoi's family, where the Israel Church's replies to a 90-day fast and prayer bore fruit.

The Church's pastor, Stephen Wa Wanjiku, highlighted the importance of prayer in the family unit while cautioning parents against provoking their children.