- Musalia Mudavadi plans to travel to Russia over recruitment of Kenyans into the war
- He seeks direct talks with Russian officials to stop further enlistment
- Government has rescued 27 Kenyans stranded in Russia
- Recruits reportedly faced harsh conditions and risky tasks
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi is set to travel to Moscow following reports of Kenyans being recruited to fight in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 10, Mudavadi said he plans to hold direct discussions with Russian authorities to stop the exposure of Kenyans to the war.
He noted that lives have already been lost and stressed the need for urgent action to prevent further harm.
Mudavadi stated that his visit will focus on engaging the Russian government at a high level. He said Kenya wants the recruitment issue addressed firmly and immediately.
According to him, diplomatic engagement is necessary to ensure Kenyans are not placed in dangerous situations abroad.
The government confirmed that 27 Kenyans who had been illegally recruited and stranded in Russia have been safely returned home.
Officials said their rescue was made possible through coordinated diplomatic and consular efforts led by Kenya’s mission in Moscow.
Recent reports indicate that some of the recruits were subjected to harsh treatment. They were allegedly assigned risky duties, including assembling drones and handling dangerous chemicals without proper training or safety gear.
Mudavadi said many of those affected were misled by false job promises and unclear recruitment processes. In some cases, families were not informed after their relatives died on the frontline.
Beyond the war issue, the government is also raising concerns over other forms of exploitation affecting Kenyans seeking work overseas.
Mudavadi cited cases linked to human trafficking, illegal organ trade, drug trafficking, and other forms of abuse targeting vulnerable job seekers.
The rescued individuals will receive counselling and other support services to help them recover and reintegrate into society.
Mudavadi also revealed that President William Ruto has engaged Ukrainian authorities over Kenyans being held as prisoners of war. Kenya is pursuing diplomatic channels to secure their release and safe return.
The government maintains that protecting Kenyans abroad remains a top priority as it works to curb illegal recruitment and related abuses.
