Kenya to Address Recruitment of Nationals in Ukraine Conflict with Russia

With fears rising over the recruitment of Kenyans to fight for Russia in Ukraine, Kenya's government is preparing to engage with Moscow to address this issue. Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi has labeled the practice 'unacceptable' and vowed to combat illegal recruitment efforts.

The Kenyan authorities estimate that around 200 nationals have been recruited to fight for Russia, but the exact number remains unclear as none traveled through official channels. Speaking to the BBC, Mudavadi stated, Kenya and Russia have had long relations since independence, and this, in my view, becomes a very unfortunate episode of otherwise very positive and cordial relations between our two countries. He emphasized the importance of curbing illegal recruitment practices and the closure of over 600 recruitment agencies suspected of duping people with false job promises.

So far, 27 Kenyans, who were fighting for Russian forces, have been repatriated with the help of Kenyan authorities, who are also offering psychological support. However, concerns persist, especially among families of those who have reportedly died fighting, who have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from both the Kenyan and Russian governments.

Additionally, authorities are working to repatriate the bodies of those who died in the conflict, with Mudavadi noting, Families that we've spoken to say they have not been able to bury their loved ones because their bodies are still on the other end. The situation continues to complicate Kenya's diplomatic relations as it strives to address these urgent humanitarian concerns. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on the Kenyan government to further regulate recruitment agencies and better protect its citizens from exploitation.