A Calgary businessman and philanthropist says he paid roughly $750,000 to help free kidnapped journalist Amanda Lindhout in Somalia.

A Somalian man found guilty in the kidnapping of Amanda Lindhout has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

The Alberta journalist read her victim impact statement Wednesday at the sentencing hearing for Ali Omar Ader, describing the abuse and sexual assault she endured while captive in Somalia.

Sentencing arguments are slated for March 22 in the case of a Somalian man found guilty in the kidnapping of Amanda Lindhout.

Nigel Brennan was held in Somalia alongside Amanda Lindhout and refused to leave even after money had been secured for his release.

Ali Omar Ader has been found guilty in the kidnapping of Amanda Lindhout in Somalia.

Ali Omar Ader contradicted his own testimony several times Wednesday during cross-examination by the Crown attorney.

Ali Omar Ader says he lied to undercover agents when he boasted getting $10,000 for his role as negotiator in the Amanda Lindhout hostage-taking.

"Writing a memoir does take courage because everybody is going to see you differently," Stewart said.

Amanda Lindhout sobbed as she approached the witness box to describe her abduction at gunpoint, the beginning of what she calls 460 days of hell.