The latest development comes amid growing concern about Kenyans being duped into joining the Russia-Ukraine conflict under false pretences.

In a Monday statement, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi stated that the government has been in constructive dialogue with the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the repatriation of affected nationals.

“The Government has been seized of the matter and for several months has been pursuing it,” the statement read. 

 “Kenyan and Russian officials held a crucial meeting last month to address the need for Kenyans detained in various military camps across Russia to be facilitated to reach Kenya’s mission in Moscow for safe return home.”

The statement acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that many foreign nationals, including Kenyans, were caught up after signing voluntary contracts with recruiters—some of whom masqueraded as legitimate agents working with the Russian government. 

In the statement, Kenya expressed deep concern about the recruitment of its youth by "corrupt and ruthless agents," who allegedly use false information to lure job seekers abroad, only to land them in active combat zones.

Following these high-level engagements, several Kenyans have already been rescued and given emergency travel documents so they can return to their families. 

According to Mudavadi, the two governments have agreed that any Kenyan detained without consent will be immediately released to the Kenyan mission in Moscow.

The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs also directed immigration and security agencies to increase vigilance at border crossings and airports in an effort to dismantle recruitment networks and prevent further exploitation of Kenyan citizens.

In addition, the Kenyan mission in Moscow has advised Kenyans visiting Russia to register with the Embassy and be wary of potential scams. 

The advisory, which was posted on the Mission's official website and social media channels, emphasises the importance of seeking consular assistance while abroad.

Despite the current challenges, Nairobi and Moscow are reportedly working to strengthen bilateral ties, including a Bilateral Labour Agreement that will establish a framework for safe and legitimate employment opportunities for Kenyans in Russia.

“The Government of Kenya remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad while promoting mutually beneficial cooperation with partner nations,” Dr. Mudavadi stated.

The government has urged families with relatives in Russia or neighbouring regions to keep in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and report any cases of missing persons or suspected illegal recruitment. By Jelilah Daud, Citizen Digital