Rising number of missing Kenyans
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Musalia Mudavadi, has reported that 16 Kenyans are now missing in Russia after joining the country’s army, up from 10 just 24 hours earlier. Meanwhile, 47 others have returned home safely from the front lines in Ukraine.
Mudavadi also stated that 38 Kenyans are currently hospitalized in Russia under restricted access, and two are being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine. The total number of Kenyans who have participated in military operations is estimated at more than 250, with 165 currently active.
Recruitment and incentives
The recruits reportedly signed contracts to serve as either logistics officers or in combat roles. Mudavadi emphasized that most enlisted voluntarily, motivated by promises of lucrative compensation ranging from $11,500 to $23,000, a monthly salary up to $2,700, possible citizenship, and additional gratuities upon contract completion.
Recruitment efforts involved agencies based in Kenya, Russia, Qatar, and the UAE. The Kenyan government has launched an investigation into illegal recruitment practices and closed more than 600 agencies suspected of duping citizens.
Government action and international talks
In March, Mudavadi met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow, leading to an agreement to halt further enrolment of Kenyans into the Russian army. Lavrov confirmed that the contracts were voluntarily signed. The Kenyan authorities continue to monitor the situation to safeguard citizens and prevent further exploitation.
Broader context
Ukrainian intelligence estimates that more than 1,700 people from 36 African countries have been recruited to fight for Russia. Ukraine is also actively seeking foreign recruits, including individuals highlighted on social media, such as a Nigerian operative known as “Cobra.”
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