- Kenya confirms over 200 citizens are currently fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
- Recruitment agencies are still active in Kenya and Russia.
- Some Kenyans were misled into joining, thinking the work was non-combat.
- Authorities have rescued 21 Kenyans and are pursuing legal action against recruiters.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed on Wednesday that more than 200 Kenyans are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. The ministry warned that recruitment networks targeting Africans, including Kenyans, remain active.
“Recruitment exercises in Russia have reportedly expanded to include African nationals, including Kenyans. Over two hundred Kenyans may have joined the Russian military… recruitment networks are still active in both Kenya and Russia,” the ministry said.
Some recruits were allegedly offered up to $18,000 to cover visas, travel, and accommodation. However, many have reported injuries, and authorities say that several were tricked into joining.
In a raid near Nairobi in September, security agents rescued 21 Kenyans who were about to be deployed. One person was arrested and is now facing prosecution.
Those rescued were under the impression that they would work in non-combat roles, such as assembling drones, handling chemicals, and painting, rather than fighting in a war.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andriy Sybiha, previously described the contracts offered by Russia as “equivalent to a death sentence” and urged African governments to warn their citizens.
Kenya’s Foreign Ministry has now echoed the caution, urging Kenyans to avoid recruitment networks that may put their lives at serious risk.
Moscow’s embassy in Nairobi has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
