27/10/2026
Uganda’s Ambassador to Russia, Moses Kizige, has confirmed the deaths of 11 Ugandan nationals who were recruited into Russia’s military under its “Special Military Operations” programme, while the whereabouts of 16 others remain unknown, amid fears that they may also have died.
The bodies of the 16 missing Ugandans have not been recovered, leaving their families uncertain about the fate of their loved ones.
The Ugandan Embassy in Moscow had written to the relevant Russian authorities seeking clarification on the whereabouts and fate of the missing citizens following growing concerns from their families.
The development follows repeated appeals by relatives of the missing Ugandans, led by Innocent Kato, who contacted the embassy seeking information about their loved ones after losing contact with them.
The families have been seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of their relatives, particularly those who travelled to Russia after being recruited into military-related programmes.
However, more than five Ugandans are reportedly still serving in the Russian military. They are expected to return home once their respective contracts expire.
The situation has raised concerns among affected families over the safety of Ugandans recruited to serve in Russia’s military operations, with relatives continuing to seek official updates on those whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Uganda’s diplomatic engagement with Russian authorities is expected to be crucial in establishing the fate of the missing nationals and providing their families with clarity on the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and disappearances.
