Photo: Defense Intelligence of Ukraine
Russian Orthodox Church is allegedly recruiting Kenyans to fight against Ukraine through its African Exarchate, according to reports by Religion News Service and rights group Vocal Africa cited by Important Stories.
Young people in Kenya are allegedly promised education or well-paid jobs in Russia, with travel covered by church structures. After arrival, their passports are reportedly confiscated, bank accounts opened without their control, and they are sent to the front.
One reported victim was Charles Waithaka Wangari, a 31-year-old aspiring footballer whose death in the war became known in December 2025. Recruiters allegedly told him he could join a professional team in Sweden after traveling to Russia.
An anonymous church representative in Nairobi told Religion News Service that Kenyans are indeed sent to seminaries in Russia but are warned about possible military recruitment.
Rights groups estimate that about 500 Kenyans have been recruited this way over two years, while Kenyan intelligence believes more than 1,000 citizens are currently fighting on Russia’s side. Around 200 families have sought help from Vocal Africa regarding relatives who ended up in the war.
The Kenyan government publicly called on Russia in early February to stop recruitment efforts. Despite a 2026 ban by 36 countries on recruiting mercenaries abroad and via social media, Russia is said to continue targeting Africans, exploiting poverty and limited opportunities.
The African Exarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church was created in 2021, and between 2022 and 2025 the church expanded its presence to at least 34 African countries. Analysts say religious, educational, and cultural programs are being used to build influence networks while simultaneously recruiting foreigners for military and defense-industry roles.
