Govt Explains Challenges in Assisting Stranded Kenyans in Russia

The Kenyan Embassy in Moscow has warned citizens against travelling to Russia for work through unverified channels, citing reports of fraud and cases in which Kenyans were pressured into joining the Russian military.

The advisory follows increasing reports of Kenyans arriving in Russia after being promised well-paid jobs and residency opportunities, only to find that the offers did not exist or differed significantly from what had been advertised. The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said some individuals had their passports confiscated, their movement restricted and their access to consular services limited.

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu stated that citizens who travel through irregular arrangements may face delays or limits in receiving government assistance, including repatriation. She added that Russian legal and administrative procedures can make intervention difficult, leaving affected individuals exposed.

The embassy urged Kenyans to avoid seeking employment through social media, messaging platforms or unlicensed agents. It advised jobseekers to verify opportunities through official institutions, including the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and Kenya’s diplomatic missions. 

Citizens were also warned not to travel on tourist visas for employment. Those already living in Russia, Belarus or Kazakhstan have been asked to register with the embassy.

The warning follows claims by activist Boniface Mwangi that several Kenyans stranded in western Russia were recruited into the Russian army after the embassy declined to intervene. He alleged that some of those sent to the frontline have not returned, raising concerns about possible fatalities.

The embassy said it is working with local authorities to disrupt fraudulent recruitment networks and to safeguard Kenyan nationals. It stressed that verifying overseas job offers through official channels is essential to reduce the risk of exploitation, particularly as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.