National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah has tabled detailed intelligence reports alleging the existence of an organized recruitment pipeline funneling Kenyans into the Russian military amid the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.
According to briefings attributed to the National Intelligence Service (NIS), the war has triggered aggressive recruitment of foreign fighters, with Kenyan ex-police officers, former soldiers, and civilians aged between their mid-20s and 50 specifically targeted. The intelligence suggests that vulnerable job seekers facing unemployment were lured with promises of high pay, bonuses, and even eventual Russian citizenship.
Recruiters allegedly dangled monthly salaries of approximately Ksh350,000, alongside bonuses ranging between Ksh900,000 and Ksh1.2 million. For many struggling with limited economic opportunities, the offers appeared life-changing. However, authorities say the reality has proven far more dangerous.
Reports submitted to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) indicate that more than 1,000 Kenyans may have left the country under various arrangements connected to the recruitment network. Updated intelligence as of February 2026 suggests that at least 200 individuals have already been absorbed into active combat roles.
Investigators claim that recruits were often flown out on tourist visas, primarily transiting through Istanbul and Abu Dhabi. Others reportedly used alternative routes via Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Africa to avoid heightened scrutiny at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The use of indirect travel paths is believed to have been a deliberate strategy to bypass detection systems.
The intelligence report alleges collusion between private recruitment agencies and rogue officials within several Kenyan institutions. Agencies are said to have coordinated with compromised personnel from the Directorate of Immigration Services, the DCI, the Anti-Narcotics Unit, and the National Employment Authority to facilitate smooth departures without interception.
Further, the briefing claims there was coordination involving individuals linked to the Russian Embassy in Nairobi and the Kenyan Embassy in Moscow, where Russian-visit visas were allegedly issued to recruits. Authorities have not publicly confirmed individual culpability, but the intelligence points to a structured network rather than isolated cases.
One recruitment agency reportedly operating along Koinange Street in Nairobi is accused of using the “Kazi Majuu” initiative branding to attract youth. Medical screenings were allegedly conducted at three separate facilities within Nairobi’s central business district before departure.
In September, officers from the Transnational Organised Crimes Unit (TOCU) reportedly raided premises at Great Wall Garden Apartments, where 22 Kenyans aged between 24 and 38 were rescued while awaiting travel. Authorities believe the location functioned as a holding and coordination point.
Returnees have described undergoing approximately three weeks of military training in Moscow before being deployed to frontline battle zones. Several said they were initially promised non-combat roles, including technical or support assignments such as drone painting, only to find themselves reassigned to active combat.
The human toll reflected in the intelligence data is significant. As of February 2026, reports indicate that 39 Kenyans are hospitalized, 30 have been repatriated, 28 are listed as missing in action, 35 remain stationed in military camps, and 89 are reportedly deployed on the front line. One individual is detained, while another has completed their contract.
Separate tallies suggest at least 10 confirmed deaths, with estimates possibly rising to 18. Additionally, four Kenyans are reported to be prisoners of war in Ukrainian custody, and approximately 27 others remain unaccounted for.
Some recruits did not depart directly from Kenya. Intelligence shows that a number were already working in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Dubai, Jordan, and parts of Asia before relocating to Russia after accepting similar offers.
Security agencies warn that the recruitment network exposes Kenya to potential diplomatic strain and heightened human trafficking risks. Officials argue that beyond the immediate security implications, the situation could complicate Kenya’s international relations and raise serious concerns about the exploitation of economically vulnerable citizens.
Authorities have pledged continued intelligence sharing and cross-border cooperation to dismantle the alleged networks. Investigations remain ongoing as agencies seek to identify key facilitators, financial flows, and recruitment mechanisms driving what officials describe as a growing transnational operation targeting Kenyan youth.
