Rudi Nyumbani Initiative · Kenya
Deceived by false promises, Kenyan youth were recruited into Russia's front lines — without consent, without protection, and without a way home. Many never returned. We speak their names. We will not be silent.
🚨 If your loved one was recruited — File a Report Now
Hotline: +254 700 000 000 · help@rudinyumbani.ke
The Crisis
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a shadowy network of recruiters operating inside Kenya and abroad has been luring citizens with promises of overseas work — high salaries, security contracts, a better life.
What they found was a warzone. Deployed as front-line infantry with minimal training, many were killed, wounded, or abandoned. Families were left with no information — sometimes receiving demands for money just to repatriate their child's remains.
"They told him it was a security job. He called me from somewhere cold and said he was scared. That was the last I heard."
— Mother of a recruited Kenyan, Kisumu CountyIn Memoriam
These are not statistics. These are sons, brothers, fathers — young Kenyans who dreamed of a better life and paid the highest price. We light a candle for every name. We will not let them be forgotten.
Still Unaccounted For
These individuals were last known to have been recruited or traveling toward Russia. Their families have received no confirmation of their fate. If you have any information, contact us immediately.
Richard Ouma — Homa Bay County
Kiprotich Kaino ("Kushoto") — Elgeyo Marakwet County
Samuel Maina — Reported missing; later reported injured and facing difficulties with Russian authorities
Exact status of these individuals continues to shift as new information emerges.
The government has tracked 252 cases. Many families are still afraid to come forward. The true number is believed to be far higher.
Report Your Loved OneTake Action
If you believe a family member was recruited and may be in Russia or Ukraine, or if you have received distressing news — fill in this form. All information is strictly confidential. Our team will contact you within 48 hours.
🕯️ Thank you. We have received your report. A team member will reach out within 48 hours. You are not alone in this.
Accountability
The following entities are implicated — through documented evidence, credible witness accounts, and public records — in the illegal, deceptive recruitment of Kenyan civilians into active combat. We name them in the public interest and call for full investigations.
Know the identity of a recruiter, company, or official who enabled this? Help us build the case. All tips are fully anonymous.
Submit Anonymous Tip →