Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has ruled out compensation for Kenyans who were illegally recruited to fight in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War, stating that the government’s priority remains facilitating their safe return home.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV from Russia, where he is on official duty, Mudavadi acknowledged growing concern from families of affected individuals.
He revealed that distress messages from relatives had prompted urgent diplomatic engagement with Russian authorities.
“There were numerous messages of distress from Kenyan families of those who have been caught up in the Russia-Ukraine war,” Mudavadi said.
“I came here primarily to ensure that there is no further enlisting of Kenyans into the special military operations and to ensure that we can assist those already here to return home to their families.”
The Cabinet Secretary noted that Kenya is working closely with the Russian government to halt further recruitment and to secure the withdrawal of Kenyans currently on the frontlines.
According to him, discussions are ongoing to have those affected recalled and disengaged from combat roles.
Mudavadi’s remarks come amid increasing reports that some Kenyans were lured abroad with promises of lucrative job opportunities, only to find themselves enlisted into military operations linked to the conflict.
The situation has raised concerns about human trafficking networks and gaps in oversight regarding overseas employment.
However, the government has taken a firm position on compensation, emphasizing that those who travelled did so outside official channels.
Mudavadi stated that the state cannot assume financial responsibility for individuals who left the country without government approval or knowledge.
“We cannot compensate those who were lured because they did not announce their departure. They were not sanctioned by the Government of Kenya,” he said. “What we can do is assist in bringing them back home.”
The statement signals a clear policy stance as authorities balance humanitarian concerns with legal and procedural boundaries. While families have called for support and accountability, the government appears focused on diplomatic intervention rather than financial redress.
Mudavadi’s visit to Russia is part of broader bilateral engagements, but the issue of Kenyan nationals in the conflict has taken centre stage. His remarks suggest that Nairobi is prioritizing citizen safety while also seeking to prevent further exploitation of job seekers by rogue agents.
As efforts continue, the government is expected to intensify public awareness campaigns warning Kenyans against unverified overseas job offers, particularly in conflict zones.
For now, the fate of those already caught up in the war remains a pressing concern, with families anxiously awaiting their safe return.