Ghana’s foreign affairs minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that at least 55 Ghanaians have died fighting in the Russia‑Ukraine war, with two others held as prisoners of war. The figures, shared during his visit to Kyiv, represent the highest officially confirmed African casualties in the conflict.
Rising Recruitment of Africans Into the War
Ukrainian authorities told Ablakwa that 272 Ghanaians are believed to have been drawn into the conflict since 2022, many through illegal recruitment schemes promising lucrative jobs. Ukraine’s foreign minister added that more than 1,700 Africans from 36 countries have been recruited to fight for Russia.
Other African nations have also suffered losses:
- Cameroon: local media report 94 deaths (not officially confirmed)
- South Africa: two killed, 15 repatriated, two severely injured
- Kenya: at least one confirmed death, with 1,000 citizens reportedly recruited to fight for Russia
Ghana’s Response
Ablakwa described the numbers as “depressing and frightening”, stressing that these are not statistics but human lives and shattered families. He announced that Ghana will:
- Crack down on dark‑web recruitment networks
- Launch public awareness campaigns to warn young people
- Work with Kyiv to secure the release of the two Ghanaian POWs
“This is not our war,” he said. “We cannot allow our youth to become human shields for others.”
Prisoners of War
Ablakwa urged President Volodymyr Zelensky to release the two detained Ghanaians, describing them as victims of manipulation. Ukraine assured Ghana that the detainees are in good health, have not been tortured, and are being treated in line with international law. Discussions on their repatriation are ongoing.
Wider African Impact
The war continues to pull in vulnerable young Africans through:
- Fake job offers
- Human trafficking networks
- Online misinformation
- Promises of fast money or residency in Russia
Kenyan authorities recently charged a man accused of luring youths to Russia under false pretenses. Russia denies state involvement but says foreign nationals legally in the country may voluntarily enlist.
Outlook
As the Russia‑Ukraine war enters its fourth year, African governments face mounting pressure to protect their citizens from exploitation. Ghana’s confirmation of 55 deaths underscores the hidden African toll of a distant conflict — one that continues to claim lives far from the battlefield.