NAIROBI, Kenya – Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, is in Moscow, Russia, on a diplomatic mission aimed at addressing urgent concerns involving Kenyan citizens and boosting Kenya–Russia relations.
The visit comes amid reports that dozens of Kenyan citizens have been recruited into Russia’s military to fight in the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict.
According to a National Intelligence Service report, over 1,000 Kenyans have been allegedly recruited illegally, with some killed and others sustaining serious injuries.
Protecting Kenyans Involved in the Conflict
A key focus of Mudavadi’s visit is the welfare of Kenyans reportedly lured into the Russian military under deceptive recruitment schemes promising lucrative jobs abroad. Several Kenyans have died, while others remain stranded in Russia or Ukraine.
The Kenyan government says the visit seeks to engage Russian authorities directly and establish a framework to prevent further recruitment of citizens into the conflict. Officials also aim to facilitate the safe repatriation of Kenyans already involved or trapped in the war.
High-Level Meetings with Russian Officials
During the visit, Mudavadi is expected to hold high-level bilateral discussions with senior Russian officials, including Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister.
Meetings with Russian ministers responsible for Education and Labour will focus on cooperation in training, labour mobility, and opportunities for Kenyan professionals and students.
Contrary to some media speculation, the Kenyan delegation is not expected to meet President Vladimir Putin.
Discussions will also address concerns about Kenyans who may have been voluntarily or involuntarily enlisted in the Russian military, with Nairobi working to prevent exploitation through misleading recruitment.
Strengthening Kenya–Russia Relations
Beyond consular issues, the trip is intended to deepen diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.
Kenya and Russia have maintained relations since 1963, cooperating in areas such as education, trade, tourism, and agricultural initiatives.
Mudavadi’s discussions are expected to explore new partnerships in energy, infrastructure, health, agriculture, and trade.
Kenya is particularly interested in expanding exports of tea, coffee, and flowers to Russia while exploring broader economic cooperation.
Diplomacy Amid Global Tensions
The visit underscores Kenya’s delicate diplomatic balancing act. While Russia remains a key international partner, concerns over African recruits in the Ukraine conflict have placed pressure on governments to protect their citizens while maintaining diplomatic engagement.
Through direct talks in Moscow, Kenya aims to secure assurances that its citizens will not be exploited in foreign conflicts, while also strengthening cooperation between Nairobi and Moscow.
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