Joseph Kabugi, a 41-year-old Kenyan computer science engineer, has recounted his ordeal after being tricked into Russia's army, trained minimally, and captured on the Ukrainian frontlines. His story is the latest in a series of incidents involving Kenyans recruited to fight for Russia, including confirmed deaths like that of Clinton Nyapara Mogesa and the repatriation of 18 others by the Kenyan government. Kabugi warns fellow Kenyans against seeking work in Russia.
Struggling financially in Kenya, Kabugi learned of a job opportunity in Russia through an agency that covered even his plane ticket and promised no combat. Unaware of the full details, he signed a contract and underwent three weeks of military training, learning to use a gun despite no prior experience. 'I was not really prepared. How do you prepare in three weeks to go and fight a war? I was afraid,' he said.
Deployed near Kupyansk, he crossed a river by boat amid dead soldiers, was injured in two drone attacks without withdrawal, and faced communication issues due to language barriers with commanders. Before capture, he hid while scavenging for food and water.
Ukrainian forces treated him humanely upon capture, providing food and warm clothing. This account follows a Ukraine Defence Intelligence report a day prior on Kenyans killed fighting for Russia, amid estimates of at least 200 Kenyans recruited into the conflict via networks in Kenya and Russia. 'My advice is don't join the war between Ukraine and Russia. Be safe; stay in your country,' Kabugi implored.