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Kenya has issued a strong warning that its citizens who join foreign armed conflicts without state approval could face prosecution, following the repatriation of dozens of nationals recruited to fight for Russia in its war against Ukraine.
The UATV English reports this, citing Bloomberg.
According to Foreign Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Kenyan law clearly prohibits citizens from serving in foreign military, police, or paramilitary structures without explicit government authorization. Addressing lawmakers in Nairobi, he stressed that individuals found to have taken part in such activities would be subject to criminal liability under the country’s penal code.
Mudavadi noted that the majority of Kenyans who traveled to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war did so knowingly and voluntarily. Many reportedly signed contracts that included substantial financial incentives — with sign-on bonuses reaching up to 3 million Kenyan shillings (approximately $23,000) — as well as the promise of obtaining Russian citizenship. These offers, officials say, were a key factor in attracting recruits despite the risks involved.
Kenyan authorities have already facilitated the return of 47 citizens who had been enlisted, and the government is now considering granting a temporary amnesty to encourage others to withdraw voluntarily from the conflict and return home without immediate legal consequences. However, Mudavadi made it clear that those who fail to comply or are found to have engaged in criminal conduct may face prosecution.
The government has also launched a broad crackdown on illegal recruitment networks operating within the country. Around 600 so-called “rogue private recruitment agencies” have been deregistered after being linked to the unauthorized enlistment of Kenyan citizens into Russia’s war effort. Officials described these agencies as central actors in facilitating the flow of recruits abroad.
The human toll of Kenyan involvement in the war is becoming increasingly evident. At least 10 Kenyan nationals are feared to have been killed in the conflict, although the actual number could be higher due to difficulties in identifying casualties on the battlefield. Additionally, 38 Kenyans have reportedly been injured and are receiving medical treatment, while two individuals are currently being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine. Efforts are ongoing to secure their release.
The developments come amid rising concern across African countries over Russia’s recruitment activities on the continent. Moscow has been seeking to bolster its military capabilities by attracting foreign fighters, often targeting economically vulnerable individuals with promises of financial rewards and citizenship. However, increasing scrutiny and diplomatic pressure have led to moves aimed at curbing such practices.
Kenya’s response reflects a broader regional trend, as governments in Africa take steps to prevent their citizens from being drawn into external conflicts and to dismantle networks facilitating foreign military recruitment.
Read also: CinC Syrskyi: Russians drop 200–300 guided bombs on Ukraine daily
