Kenya, Russia End Recruitment of Kenyans for Ukraine War
News Updated: 19 March 2026 14:18 EAT
Photo Credit: Musalia Mudavadi on X
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, announced that the Kenyan government has reached an agreement with Russian authorities to halt the recruitment of Kenyan nationals into Russia’s military for the war in Ukraine. The announcement follows Mudavadi’s diplomatic mission to Moscow, where he pressed Russian officials to end the practice after concerns over deceptive recruitment practices targeting Kenyan job seekers.
Reports indicate that more than 1,000 Kenyans had been recruited in recent years, many lured by promises of high pay and bonuses, only to find themselves deployed in combat zones. The agreement stipulates that no further enlistments through the Russian Defence Ministry will be allowed, and Russia will provide consular support for Kenyans already under contract.
The recruitment scandal raised alarm in Nairobi after investigations revealed that some individuals and rogue agencies facilitated the departure of young Kenyans on tourist visas, only for them to be enlisted in military service under misleading terms. Authorities have since closed several recruitment agencies and issued warnings to the public to verify overseas job offers through official channels.
Mudavadi cautioned youth and families to be vigilant against deceptive recruitment schemes, emphasizing that some recruits had been promised civilian jobs but ended up on front-line duties. The Kenyan government’s action comes amid growing regional concerns, as reports suggest similar recruitment networks operate in other African countries.
Civil society groups and affected families welcomed the agreement, highlighting the dangers posed to young Kenyans and urging the government to continue enforcing safeguards. The move is seen as a significant step toward protecting citizens from exploitation and preventing further participation in foreign conflicts.
Kenya continues to monitor the situation, working closely with Russian authorities to ensure compliance with the agreement and support for affected citizens, while reinforcing public awareness campaigns against fraudulent overseas job offers.
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FELIX MAKONA
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