Nairobi, Kenya — Sixteen Kenyans are reported missing after joining the Russian army, according to Kenya’s foreign affairs minister, Musalia Mudavadi. He disclosed this during a Senate committee meeting, noting that 47 others have returned from the front lines in Ukraine. Additionally, 38 Kenyans are currently receiving medical treatment in Russian hospitals under restricted access. The number of missing Kenyans has increased from 10 to 16 within the last 24 hours, with their fate still unknown.
Mudavadi estimated that over 250 Kenyans are actively involved in military operations in Ukraine, with the total number potentially higher. Two Kenyans are being held by Ukraine as prisoners of war. The recruits had signed contracts to serve as logistics officers or in combat roles. Mudavadi emphasized that the majority of Kenyans enlisted with full knowledge and willingness, driven by promises of lucrative compensation and potential citizenship.
Kenya has launched an investigation into the illegal recruitment of its nationals to fight in the Ukraine conflict. Mudavadi revealed that over 600 recruitment agencies suspected of duping Kenyans with overseas job promises have been closed by Kenyan authorities. In February, families of Kenyans believed to be fighting in Ukraine protested outside parliament, demanding government action. Mudavadi met with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, in March to discuss ending the recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian army, resulting in an agreement to halt the practice.
Lavrov stated during the meeting that Kenyans had signed contracts with the Russian armed forces voluntarily. Mudavadi confirmed that the Kenyan ministry continues to closely monitor developments and work to ensure the safety of its nationals while preventing further exploitative recruitment. Ukrainian intelligence has estimated that over 1,700 people from 36 African countries have been recruited to fight for Russia.
Source: BBC Africa
