Kenyans recruited into Russia's army: what Ruto and Putin agreed
Hundreds of Kenyans went to Russia expecting civilian jobs and ended up at war in Ukraine. After talks in Moscow, Russia says it will stop recruiting Kenyans and help bring them home. Here is what was agreed, and what is still unclear.
After the Russia–Africa Summit, President William Ruto met President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow. The biggest news for Kenyan families: Russia says it will stop enlisting Kenyans into its military.
How Kenyans ended up at war
Some recruits were promised civilian jobs, such as security or logistics work. When they arrived in Russia, they were made to sign military contracts and many were sent to fight in Ukraine.
| Figure | What it shows | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 841 | Kenyans recruited, October 2022 to June 2026 | Journalists for Justice investigation |
| At least 76 | Kenyans killed fighting for Russia | Journalists for Justice investigation |
| More than 1,000 | Kenyans recruited | National Intelligence Service, to Parliament |
| 3,066 | Africans recruited from 40 countries, with 502 confirmed deaths. Kenya had the most identified recruits. | Journalists for Justice investigation |
The figures differ because each counts differently, and some Kenyans are still unaccounted for.
What was agreed in Moscow
- No more recruitment. Kenya has been classed as a "non-source country" for recruitment into the Russian military.
- Coming home. Kenya has appointed a Defence Attaché at its embassy in Moscow to work with Russia's Ministry of Defence on bringing Kenyans home safely.
- Compensation. The attaché will also help process compensation for affected Kenyans. No amounts have been announced.
- Legal work. The two countries will negotiate a labour agreement so Kenyans can live and work in Russia legally.
- Scholarships. Russian scholarships for Kenyan students will rise from 70 to 300, in fields such as health, AI, aviation and cyber security.
How to avoid job scams abroad
- Check that the recruitment agency is registered with Kenya's National Employment Authority before paying anything.
- Be suspicious of jobs offered through social media or WhatsApp that promise high pay with few questions asked.
- Read your contract before travelling, and never hand over your passport to an agent abroad.
- Share your travel details and employer's address with family, and register with the Kenyan embassy when you arrive.
We will update this page as returns and compensation are announced.
