Kenya is actively working to repatriate two of its citizens from Ukraine who have been classified as prisoners of war amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict.
The move follows diplomatic discussions between Kenya and Russia, which recently agreed to halt the recruitment of Kenyan nationals for participation in the conflict.
According to Kenyan media reports, the government is negotiating with Russian and Ukrainian authorities for the release of Evans Kibet and Macharia Willis Muniu, who are being held by Ukrainian forces after joining Russia’s special military operations.
Musalia Mudavadi confirmed the identities of the two Kenyans in a statement from Moscow, noting that efforts are underway to have them transferred to Russia first, facilitating their eventual return to Kenya.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs estimates that 252 Kenyans were conscripted into Russian military operations, including former members of the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, National Youth Service, and Kenya Defence Forces.
So far, 44 of these nationals have been safely repatriated, while roughly 160 remain active in the conflict. Tragically, around ten Kenyans have been reported missing or killed in action, with Russian authorities seeking next-of-kin details to provide compensation.
Investigations reveal that many recruits are young Africans from countries facing high unemployment and economic hardship. They are often lured with promises of well-paying civilian jobs, security roles, or educational opportunities.
Recruits are reportedly targeted through social media ads, informal agents, and shadow networks, with offers of signing bonuses up to 1.2 million Kenyan shillings ($9,309) and monthly salaries around 350,000 shillings ($2,715).
Upon arrival, some have had their passports confiscated and been pressured into signing military contracts in Russian, a language they may not understand. In certain cases, counterfeit documents and indirect transit routes were used to relocate recruits secretly.
Kenya’s government continues to coordinate with international partners to ensure the safe return of its citizens and prevent further recruitment abuses.