Families of Kenyans Fighting for Russia in Ukraine Stage Nairobi Protest, Demand Government Repatriation and Ban on Recruitment

Dozens of Kenyan families whose sons were reportedly lured into fighting for Russia in the war against Ukraine have taken to the streets of Nairobi, holding photographs of their missing or wounded relatives and chanting “Bring back our sons.”

The protesters marched to Parliament, calling on the government to break its silence, secure the return of all Kenyans – dead or alive – and outlaw recruitment agencies sending citizens to fight in foreign conflicts.

Odhiambo Ojiro, rapid response officer at human rights organization Vocal Africa, told reporters the families are demanding immediate government action. “The government of Kenya is involved,” he said. “We are urging and demanding that they meet the families today or immediately so that we bring back all Kenyans in Russia, whether dead or alive.”

Monica Wanjiku Gwere, grandmother of 28-year-old Isaac Kungu who travelled to Russia in 2025, said she wants her grandson repatriated for burial if he is dead, or returned home safely if alive. “The president should be told that we are crying because of our children, and we would want them to be repatriated,” she said.

Evans Jumba, father of Nickson Nyabuti who is in Russia, criticised the recruitment process. “Our sons have no business in the war,” he said. “They have no training in the military. They have no training even in the police. One cannot train for only one week or two weeks and then join the Russian army.”

An intelligence report presented to Parliament by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah alleged that Kenyan and Russian government officials colluded with recruitment agencies to send Kenyans to the frontlines. The government stated last month that more than 1,000 Kenyans were recruited, with at least 89 still active, one confirmed dead, 39 hospitalised, 28 missing in action, and others returned home.

Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi said he would travel to Russia for a “diplomatic approach to rein in” recruiters exploiting citizens. Efforts are reportedly underway to secure the release of Kenyans held as prisoners of war in Ukraine and repatriate those in Russia.

Families accuse recruiters of human trafficking, forced recruitment, and violations of international humanitarian and labour laws. Two Kenyans have been charged with human trafficking in connection with the scheme.

The protest reflects growing public anger over the fate of young men promised lucrative jobs abroad but instead sent to fight in Ukraine. Demonstrators demanded prosecution of those behind the recruitment and a formal ban on such practices.

The Kenyan government has not issued a direct response to the March 5 protest. The issue remains a sensitive diplomatic and humanitarian concern, with families continuing to press for answers and action.