Kwabena Ballo: Ghanaian Musician and Russian Soldier Shares Life at the War Front and New Music Journey
Kwabena Ballo, a Ghanaian musician who also serves in the Russian military, returned as a guest on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami. In the interview, Ballo opened up about life on the battlefield, the politics behind the Russia-Ukraine war, and his latest music release.
According to Ballo, Russia is currently establishing a “buffer zone”—a tactical move to protect its borders and assert control without escalating the conflict into a third world war. “Russia has already won in many ways,” he said, “but they’re avoiding a global conflict. The main issue was NATO trying to expand its influence near Russian territory. Russia had once wanted to join NATO, but was rejected, which fueled tension.”
He noted that ongoing battles are not widely reported because of military secrecy and the sensitive nature of current operations. “The plan is for both Russia and Ukraine to eventually reclaim their respective territories,” he explained.
Ballo cautioned Africans and especially Ghanaians about joining the Wagner Group, a well-known paramilitary organization. “Many don’t realize that Wagner soldiers are sent directly to the frontline. Yes, the pay is high, but it’s extremely dangerous. Most Black recruits don’t even have Russian passports yet, and some were nearly deployed to Burkina Faso.”
When discussing life on the battlefield, Ballo shared harrowing details: “No Black soldier has been given a pistol or official badge showing their combatants. We dress like everyone else—sometimes in full camouflage with leaves, like snipers. Our phones are taken because military secrets are involved. One Ghanaian nearly lost his life for filming a commander.”
Despite the dangers of military life, Ballo is still pursuing his music career. He recently released a new single titled “Dream” featuring rapper Obibini, available on Audiomack. “This song means a lot to me. I had a dream that I’d become part of the Russian army and survive it—and it came true. Before my mom died, she told me I’d become someone important.”
Ballo expressed gratitude to industry players like Obibini and Gambo for their support. “Obibini responded immediately when I reached out for a feature. He recorded his part the very next day. I want to fly him to Russia so we can shoot the video.”
Reflecting on his journey, he added: “Joining the army made me humble. I don’t care about money or property anymore. What I need now is support from people in the music industry to take this dream further.”
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