Families of Kenyan nationals detained in Ukraine can finally breathe a sigh of relief after Kyiv agreed to assist in the repatriation of Kenyans captured or detained in areas affected by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The breakthrough came on Friday following a meeting between Ukraine’s Ambassador to Kenya, Yurii Tokar, and Judy Njau, the Deputy Director General for Europe and the Commonwealth at Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the State Department for Foreign Affairs, the talks focused on consular assistance and the repatriation of Kenyan nationals currently under Ukrainian custody. Ambassador Tokar confirmed that his embassy is in active communication with the relevant Ukrainian authorities and that all actions are being coordinated through official diplomatic channels.
“At this stage, I am not in a position to share specific details, but once the process advances and verified information becomes available, it will be communicated through the appropriate official sources,” Amb Tokar told The Star.
The discussions also addressed broader bilateral issues, including educational partnerships, food security, and enhanced consular cooperation between Nairobi and Kyiv.
This latest development follows an earlier meeting on October 6 between Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing’oei and Ambassador Tokar. During that engagement, Sing’oei confirmed that the Kenyan government had reached out to Ukrainian authorities for assistance.
“Following recent reports of Kenyan nationals captured by Ukrainian forces while on the frontline, I sought Amb Tokar’s support for the Kenyans to access consular assistance and for their repatriation back to the country,” said Sing’oei.
He further emphasized that most Kenyans involved were victims of manipulation and human trafficking, adding that the government was doing everything possible to protect vulnerable citizens.
One such case is that of athlete Evans Kibet, 36, who claimed to have been duped and recruited into the Russian army. His plight highlights the growing concern over trafficking networks exploiting young Kenyans seeking opportunities abroad.
The diplomatic engagement marks a significant step toward securing the safe return of affected Kenyans as both governments strengthen cooperation amid the ongoing conflict.
