The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is engaging Russian authorities to confirm the status of two Kenyan citizens reportedly recruited into the Russian military. One of the men, Clinton Nyapara Mogesa, is reported dead, while the whereabouts of Justus Mayienda Ombati remain unknown.

Speaking to the National Assembly on March 3, 2026, Nelson Koech said the ministry had sent several requests to Moscow seeking clarification on both cases but had not received a formal response.

“There has been no official confirmation of the death of Clinton Nyapara Mogesa or information regarding Justus Mayienda Ombati from Russian authorities,” Koech said. “Our Embassy in Moscow has written to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and continues to follow up.”

Hindered rescue efforts

Koech noted that the government’s efforts to assist Kenyans in distress abroad are limited unless cases are reported by families or diaspora representatives. He said the 24-hour Diaspora Call Centre remains the primary point of contact for distress reporting and coordination.

The Ministry added that the Prime Cabinet Secretary plans to visit Moscow to hold discussions with his Russian counterpart. The talks will focus on resolving the issue and strengthening bilateral cooperation to tackle fraudulent recruitment agencies that target Kenyan job seekers.

Protecting Kenyans abroad

Kenya is also holding regular consultations with the Russian Embassy in Nairobi to track reported cases and dismantle rogue visa agents. The Ministry continues to warn Kenyans through public forums and media platforms about the dangers of illegal recruitment and unverified overseas employment offers.

Koech outlined broader government measures to protect citizens abroad, including bilateral labour agreements with countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Germany, Austria, and the United Kingdom. The Ministry has also set up welfare checks through the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, a 24-hour diaspora call centre, and Labour Attachés at Kenyan missions abroad.

He stressed that Kenya remains committed to protecting citizens’ welfare and rights overseas. He urged anyone seeking employment abroad to register with embassies to ensure accountability and access to timely consular support.

“While the government continues to put in place protective mechanisms, evidence shows that some Kenyans are voluntarily joining the Russian military, driven by economic motives,” Koech said. “We strongly urge Kenyans to desist from taking up jobs in the Russian army. That is an active war zone, and death is almost guaranteed.”