Kenyan Man Dies Abroad After Involvement in Russia–Ukraine Conflict

A former Laikipia-based footballer, Charles Wangari, has died abroad after becoming involved in the Russia–Ukraine conflict, with his family confirming he was killed on 25 December under unclear circumstances.

Wangari, who previously played for Kubali FC and was known to teammates as “Leftie”, died far from his home in Laikipia West. Details surrounding the events leading to his death remain limited, and his family has yet to receive a full account of how he lost his life.

According to available reports, Wangari left Kenya in search of employment opportunities in Europe, with Sweden said to have been his intended destination. Instead, his journey took a different course, and he reportedly underwent military training linked to the Russian Army before his death.

The family has also been informed that Wangari’s body will not be repatriated to Kenya. This has deepened their grief, as they will be unable to conduct customary burial rites or hold a funeral in his home community.

Former teammates at Kubali FC described Wangari as a committed and hardworking player whose football career showed promise. His death has been felt across the club and within the wider football community in Laikipia.