In recent developments, Kenya’s Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi announced plans to travel to Moscow as part of efforts to prevent the recruitment of Kenyans into Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. This initiative comes in response to the tragic loss of lives linked to this recruitment trend.
“We have seen loss of lives, and I am planning to make a visit to Moscow so that we can emphasize that is something that needs to be arrested,” Mudavadi stated in a media briefing.
Specific details regarding the timing of the visit have not been disclosed, and there has been no official response from Moscow regarding these plans.
Nairobi estimates that approximately 200 Kenyans have been recruited to fight for Russia, having traveled through unofficial channels. The actual number could be much higher.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, over 1,400 individuals from 36 African nations have been integrated into Russia’s military efforts, a claim that Moscow has denied.
Mudavadi further reported that more than 30 Kenyans had been evacuated from Russia in the past two months. In a significant move, 600 recruitment agencies that had misled Kenyans with false job promises have been shut down.
He indicated that efforts would also be made to secure the release of Kenyans held as prisoners of war in Ukraine and to assess the health conditions of those receiving medical care.
Mudavadi told the BBC that Kenya plans to actively discourage illegal recruitment practices through discussions on visa regulations and bilateral labor agreements, which would include a prohibition on military conscription.
The minister also mentioned that Kenyan authorities are providing psychological care to repatriated fighters to help in their “de-radicalization” and trauma recovery.
In a police operation in September, Kenyan authorities reportedly rescued 21 young men who were about to board flights to Russia. An employee from a Kenyan recruitment agency involved in this case is currently under prosecution for “human trafficking.”
A Russian national associated with the incident, Mikhail Lyapin, has reportedly been expelled from Kenya at the request of Moscow.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to Kenya, Yurii Tokar, noted that Russia initially focused its recruitment efforts on former Soviet republics in Central Asia, as well as India and Nepal, before reaching out to African nations.
“They are looking for people for cannon fodder everywhere it is possible,” Tokar asserted to AFP.
A precise figure regarding the number of Kenyans who have perished while fighting in Ukraine remains unknown.
AFP contributed reporting.
Key Takeaways
- Kenya’s Foreign Minister is set to visit Moscow to halt the recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian military.
- About 200 Kenyans are estimated to have joined Russia’s efforts, with the actual number likely higher.
- 600 recruitment agencies misleading Kenyans have been closed in the country.
- More than 30 Kenyans have been evacuated from Russia recently.
- Kenya is facilitating psychological care for repatriated fighters to address trauma.
- The extent of Kenyans combating in Ukraine is still unclear, including fatalities.
FAQ
What prompted Kenya’s Foreign Minister to travel to Moscow?
The trip aims to discourage the recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian military, emphasizing the need to address the loss of lives associated with this trend.
How many Kenyans have reportedly been recruited to fight for Russia?
Estimates suggest around 200 Kenyans have been recruited, but the actual number likely exceeds this figure.
What actions has the Kenyan government taken against recruitment agencies?
The government has closed 600 recruitment agencies that misled citizens with false job opportunities.
Are there efforts to assist Kenyans who have fought in Ukraine?
Yes, Kenyan authorities are providing psychological care to help repatriated fighters address their trauma.
