By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Russia has confirmed the deaths of 16 Cameroonian nationals fighting for its army in Ukraine since 2022, according to an internal document obtained Tuesday, raising concerns over alleged recruitment tactics targeting Africans.
Ukraine Reports Widespread African Recruitment
Ukraine says about 1,800 Africans have joined Russian forces since the war began in 2022. However, many recruits claim deception. They allege agents promised jobs or education but later forced them into military service.
Moreover, these claims have drawn attention to possible exploitation networks operating across Africa.
Cameroon Acknowledges Citizens in Conflict
For the first time, Cameroon has officially recognized that its citizens are involved in the war. Previously, authorities remained silent despite local media reports and families’ distress.
In response, officials urged affected families to contact the foreign ministry. The announcement aired on state broadcaster CRTV.
Watchdog Data Reveals Rising Death Toll
A February report by watchdog group All Eyes on Wagner listed 1,417 Africans recruited by Russia between January 2023 and September 2025.
Alarmingly, over 300 of them have died. Egypt, Cameroon, and Ghana recorded the highest numbers of recruits.
Russia Labels Fighters as “Contract Soldiers”
According to Cameroon’s foreign ministry, Russia described the deceased as “contract soldiers.” The ministry confirmed it received a fatality list from the Russian embassy in Yaoundé.
Additionally, the note stated the individuals operated in what Russia calls a “special military operation zone.” However, officials did not disclose details about how they died.
Growing Concerns Over Recruitment Practices
The revelations continue to raise serious concerns. Critics question the legality and ethics of recruitment methods targeting vulnerable Africans.
Furthermore, families across affected countries are demanding transparency, accountability, and justice.
