Kenya's trade ministry has issued a stern warning to foreign nationals, stating that visa-free entry does not permit them to engage in trade, as the government prepares to shut down unlicensed small businesses operated by foreigners. President William Ruto had designated a deadline for today for foreign nationals operating small-scale businesses to cease their operations.
This move has prompted the Burundian embassy in Kenya to offer emergency travel documents to its citizens who wish to return home, following reports of mistreatment of Burundians. The exact number of foreign nationals involved in small-scale trading or the total number expected to be affected by this crackdown remains unclear.
The trade ministry stated that there has been a "deliberate misuse of visa applications by some visitors," who enter Kenya as investors or tourists but then engage in business activities that violate their declared status. Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui emphasized the need to align the activities of foreigners in the retail and local trade sectors with work permit provisions, citing a high number of such individuals.
President Ruto previously stated that while Kenya remains open to foreign investment, individuals should not come from other countries to work as hawkers or open small shops, arguing that investors should focus on job creation and production expansion rather than competing with Kenyans in small businesses. These remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some critics labeling them as populist and risking xenophobia, allegations that government officials deny.
In response, Burundi's Foreign Affairs Minister Edouard Bizimana expressed concerns on X, warning that Kenyan citizens in Burundi live peacefully but that continued hate speech against Burundi could alter this situation. He stressed that the Kenyan government is responsible for the safety of Burundians living in Kenya.
Bizimana's statement followed a meeting with representatives of the East African Community (EAC), a bloc promoting regional economic integration, of which both Kenya and Burundi are members. During the meeting, Kenyan representatives were present, and Bizimana stated he had requested the Kenyan ambassador to convey Burundi's concerns to the government and ensure no Burundian faces abuse.
A senior official in Kenya's foreign affairs ministry clarified on Sunday that foreigners possessing the required documentation, including work permits and licenses, can continue their activities. Permanent Secretary Korir Sing'oei affirmed that Burundian nationals and other East Africans are free to reside and conduct business in Kenya as long as they comply with the country's laws.
Despite this clarification, concerns persist among some foreign traders. Alexis Ntinanirwa, head of the Association of Burundians living in Kenya, voiced his dissatisfaction with Ruto's decision but urged Burundians to remain patient. He also highlighted the potential for wider regional repercussions, noting that Kenyans are also engaged in small-scale businesses in other East African countries, suggesting the issue could affect cross-border commerce.
Ntinanirwa advised Burundians involved in small businesses to avoid confrontations with law enforcement officials.