Kenya’s Trade Ministry has issued a stern warning to foreign nationals, clarifying that visa-free entry does not authorize employment or business operations. The government is moving to shut down unlicensed small businesses operated by foreigners, with President William Ruto setting the current day as the final deadline for such activities to cease.
Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui stated that there has been a deliberate misuse of visa applications, with some visitors entering as tourists or investors only to engage in retail trade in breach of their declared status. “Owing to the high number of foreigners involved in the retail and local trade sectors, there is therefore a need to align their activities and ensure compliance with work permit provisions,” Kinyanjui said in a statement.
President Ruto had previously emphasized that while Kenya welcomes foreign investment, the country cannot allow individuals from places like China to compete with locals as hawkers or shop owners. He argued that true investors should focus on job creation and production expansion rather than small-scale commerce. These remarks drew mixed reactions, with some critics labeling them populist and xenophobic, a charge government officials deny.
The crackdown has triggered diplomatic friction with Burundi. Following reports of mistreatment against its citizens, the Burundian embassy in Nairobi announced it would provide emergency free travel documents to those wishing to return home. Burundi’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Edouard Bizimana, warned on social media platform X that continued hate speech could alter the peaceful situation for Kenyans in Burundi, adding that the Kenyan government is responsible for the safety of Burundians in the country.
Bizimana held an urgent meeting with representatives of the East African Community (EAC), an eight-member bloc promoting regional economic integration. Both nations are members, and Kenyan officials attended the session in Burundi. Bizimana requested that the Kenyan ambassador convey Burundi’s concerns and ensure no abuse occurs against its citizens.
Seeking to clarify the government’s stance, Kenya’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, stated on Sunday that foreigners with proper documentation, including work permits and licenses, are free to continue their activities. He noted that all East Africans and Africans generally are welcome in Kenya provided they adhere to legal requirements.
Despite these assurances, anxiety persists among foreign traders. Alexis Ntinanirwa, head of the Association of Burundians living in Kenya, expressed dissatisfaction with Ruto’s decision but urged patience. He cautioned that the issue could have broader regional implications, noting that Kenyans also engage in small-scale trading in Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda. Ntinanirwa advised Burundian hawkers to avoid confrontation with police as the enforcement deadline approaches.
Leave a Reply