Kenya has uncovered a recruitment network linking its citizens to the Russia-Ukraine war, with officials estimating that more than 200 Kenyans have already joined Russian forces under a scheme offering up to US$18,000. The revelation follows growing concerns across Africa about deceptive tactics used to draw young people into a conflict far beyond their national interests.
President William Ruto brought renewed attention to the issue last week after appealing to Ukraine to release Kenyans currently in Ukrainian custody. His request came amid distress calls from Africans trapped in the war zone, many of whom say they were misled into joining the conflict under false promises.
Ukraine’s foreign minister, Andriy Sybiha, warned that roughly 1,400 Africans from about 36 countries are currently fighting alongside Russian troops, some coerced with offers that he described as “equivalent to a death sentence.” Kyiv has urged African governments to intensify public warnings.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now confirmed that Russia-linked networks are actively recruiting Kenyans. In an official statement, the ministry said more than 200 nationals are believed to be serving with the Russian military, with recruitment cells still operating in both Kenya and Russia. The country’s embassy in Moscow has also recorded cases of injured Kenyans involved in the scheme.
According to the ministry, recruits were promised up to US$18,000 to cover travel, visas, and accommodation in Russia before being deployed to fight. Kenya has begun cracking down on these operations, including a recent raid in Nairobi that rescued 21 individuals who were being prepared for transit to Russia.
The development adds to growing anxiety across Africa as the Russia-Ukraine war increasingly draws in vulnerable young people seeking economic opportunities. Kyiv and Nairobi have pledged to tighten cooperation to dismantle these networks and prevent further exploitation.
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