Thousands Kenyans are fighting on Russia's side

The Kenyan National Intelligence Service (NIS) released the findings of its investigation on February 17, establishing that the number of Kenyan mercenaries exceeds 1,000. In December, Kenyan authorities had estimated that figure at only 200. Eighty-nine Kenyans are reportedly on the front lines, 39 have been hospitalized with injuries, and 30 have been repatriated. Dozens of others who traveled to Russia remain unaccounted for, with no further information available about their whereabouts.

Those recruited include soldiers, police officers, and civilians. They were enticed by monthly salaries of around USD 2,700, bonuses of up to USD 9,000, and the prospect of obtaining Russian citizenship. Kenyans working in the Middle East and Asia also took advantage of the offer.

The report provides detailed information on the recruitment mechanism and the routes used to smuggle recruits. Recruitment agencies collaborated with airport staff, security officials, and diplomats at Russian and Kenyan embassies to bypass controls and secure visas. Upon arrival in Russia, the mercenaries underwent basic training before being deployed to the front lines in Ukraine. Their passports were confiscated to prevent desertion.

The publication of the report highlights the scale at which the Russian Federation must operate to secure manpower for its ongoing war efforts. Russian forces are suffering heavy personnel losses, yet they have access to a far greater number of mercenaries than Ukraine. Despite significant technological advancements in modern warfare, manpower remains one of its key components.