A concerning number of Kenyan nationals have reportedly been recruited to fight for Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Intelligence reports tabled in Parliament indicate that more than 1,000 Kenyans have been recruited and dispatched. Confirmed casualties include 19 deaths and 32 missing, as stated by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in February 2026.
Data from May 2026 showed 89 remained on the front line, 39 were hospitalised, and 28 were missing in action.
Potential recruits are reportedly promised a joining fee of Sh2 million, though investigations suggest much is consumed by various fees.
A monthly salary of Sh140,000 and a recruiter commission of Sh100,000 are also advertised, raising ethical concerns. The reasons behind these recruitments and the government's response are subject to ongoing scrutiny.
