1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
ConflictsAfrica

How did 1,000 Kenyans end up in Russia's war on Ukraine?

February 23, 2026

Nearly 1,000 citizens of Kenya have reportedly been lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Now, their families are pressing the government to intervene while it pushes Moscow for answers. But how did so many young job seekers end up on the frontlines of a foreign war? Eddy Micah Jr speaks with Dr. Edgar Githua, an international relations expert, and DW correspondent in Nairobi, Felix Maringa.

https://p.dw.com/p/59HFI

Nearly 1,000 citizens of Kenya have reportedly been lured to fight for Russia in its war in Ukraine. Now, their families are pressing the government to intervene while it pushes Moscow for answers. But how did so many young job seekers end up on the frontlines of a foreign war? Eddy Micah Jr speaks with Dr. Edgar Githua, an international relations expert, and DW correspondent in Nairobi, Felix Maringa.

Skip next section About the show

About the show

AfricaLink Podcast

AfricaLink

DW AfricaLink is packed with news, politics, culture and more — every weekday. From combating health issues and freedom of expression to finances, tolerance and environmental protection, we have it covered.