Kenyans recruited for employment in Russia have reportedly been deployed to active combat zones in Ukraine. This situation has led to calls from families for the return of their relatives and government intervention.
Case of David Kuloba
David Kuloba, 22, from Nairobi, accepted a job offer as a security guard in Russia through a recruitment agency in Kenya. His mother, Susan Kuloba, expressed reservations regarding his travel to Russia. Kuloba was reportedly promised over $7,000 upon arrival. He traveled to Russia in August.
Upon arrival, Kuloba contacted his mother, informing her that the nature of his employment had changed. He subsequently received two weeks of combat training and was deployed to the battle zone in Ukraine. Kuloba reported to his mother that he and other individuals had been ambushed in Russian-controlled territory. His mother requested his return, but he cited an existing contract. On October 4, Kuloba sent a voice message indicating he was about to enter battle and provided details of his Russian military ID and contract, instructing her to contact the Russian embassy if he did not survive. This was the last communication from him.
Following this, a friend of Kuloba's informed his mother that David was believed to be deceased. An agent, contacted by Mrs. Kuloba, subsequently stated that David was "missing, feared dead." The agent offered compensation but did not provide photographic evidence or official confirmation of his status or location. When Mrs. Kuloba visited the Russian embassy in Nairobi, officials stated they do not "associate with the army." Official confirmation of David Kuloba's fate remains outstanding.
Other Cases and Wider Context
The father of another Kenyan man reported that his son was recruited as a driver in Russia, contrary to military service. The son was promised approximately $1,500 per month. He underwent two weeks of training before being sent to the battlefield in Ukraine, where he sustained injuries. He has since returned to Kenya and has not been identified to protect his well-being. The father stated his son observed "scattered bodies of other fighters" and that many, like his son, had signed one-year contracts without fully comprehending the terms.
Kenya's foreign minister has indicated that approximately 200 Kenyans are known to be involved in fighting for Russia, confirming active recruitment networks. This follows a report in September concerning a Kenyan athlete captured in Ukraine who stated he had been deceived into joining the Russian army.
Government Response
The Kenyan government has initiated investigations into several recruitment agencies. Sylvanus Osoro, Kenya's parliamentary majority chief whip, confirmed that some agencies are under investigation for allegedly luring young people with promises of substantial payments. Out of around 130 registered agencies, five have been flagged, with three suspended and two under investigation.
Parliament's Defence and Foreign Relations Committee is examining the recruitment processes, information provided, and contract presentations by these agencies. Families of those involved have expressed concerns about the perceived slow government response.
Regarding repatriation, Osoro stated that the process must adhere to diplomatic channels, noting that contracts were signed willingly, irrespective of awareness of the terms. He indicated that all known cases are being monitored, and officials are verifying the circumstances of contract signing. Osoro declined to confirm the number of reported Kenyan fatalities.
New legislation is reportedly being drafted to enhance control over recruitment agencies, including stricter licensing scrutiny and clearer distinctions in work categories.
International Scope
This issue is not limited to Kenya, with authorities in other African countries also reporting cases of individuals offered lucrative jobs in Russia later leading to military recruitment. In South Africa, allegations have emerged concerning the involvement of a former President's daughter in recruitment processes; she denies the accusations.
Ukrainian officials have consistently stated that individuals fighting for Russia are considered enemy combatants, and the only secure pathway out is through surrender, which would lead to treatment as a prisoner of war.
Mrs. Kuloba continues to seek official confirmation regarding her son's status and, if he is deceased, his repatriation.