Approximately 200 Kenyans are reportedly engaged in combat for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the potential for additional recruitment as indicated by government authorities. Some of these individuals are former members of Kenya’s security forces, as mentioned by Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister. Reports have emerged from individuals who were rescued, stating they were compelled to assemble drones and manage hazardous materials without sufficient training or protective equipment.
Kenyan President William Ruto has recently requested assistance from the Ukrainian government to facilitate the release of Kenyan nationals currently in conflict areas. Estimates suggest that around 1,400 citizens from various African nations are participating alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, with some recruits having reportedly been deceived into joining.
Mudavadi noted that recruitment efforts in Russia have been expanding to include African nationals. He estimated that over 200 Kenyans may have joined the Russian military, and highlighted that recruitment networks remain active in both Kenya and Russia. The Kenyan embassy in Moscow has observed injuries among some recruits who were allegedly lured with promises of financial compensation, reportedly up to $18,000 to cover visa, travel, and accommodation expenses.
The Kenyan government has expressed increasing concern regarding a rising number of nationals being involved in “forced criminality,” which includes activities such as drug trafficking and forced labor abroad. This trend is viewed as a significant threat to national and global security.
In recent operations, Kenyan authorities rescued more than 20 nationals preparing to join the conflict near Nairobi. An individual suspected of facilitating the recruitment is currently facing prosecution. Furthermore, there is ongoing discourse about foreign nationals, including those from various countries, being held in Ukrainian prisoner-of-war camps amid the conflict.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cddrj3mzgz2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss