NAIROBI, Kenya — A recent directive from President William Ruto to crack down on small-scale businesses operated by foreign nationals has instilled widespread fear among migrant communities in Kenya. The order, which demands compliance this week, has disrupted daily life in neighborhoods like Kibera, where undocumented traders face sudden uncertainty.
At a Nairobi matatu terminal, manager James Mogaka reported that several foreign drivers have stayed away from work out of fear. One driver, whose wife is a Burundian national running a fruit stand, is too anxious to report to his job, worried that mobs might target his spouse’s business.
The move mirrors rising anti-migrant sentiments across Africa, including restrictions in Tanzania and xenophobic violence in South Africa. While some local traders like Robert Kiberenge argue the president is distracting from bigger issues and have no issue with foreign entrepreneurs, others support the crackdown. Businessman Kiprono Kutuny agreed with the administration, stating that foreign nationals are undercutting local entrepreneurs through cheap labor.
Kenya, home to approximately 993,000 international migrants according to UN estimates, is East Africa’s economic hub. The government claims the policy aims to protect Kenyan business owners in a competitive market. However, economist Edward Kusewa criticized the directive as harmful, warning it undermines the African Continental Free Trade Area and could damage the economy since migrants contribute significantly through taxes.
With presidential elections approaching next year and economic pressures mounting, the debate over small business ownership has intensified. In response to the chaos, the government granted undocumented East African nationals a 90-day window to regularize their status. Despite this reprieve, many migrants from countries such as Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo have flocked to their embassies in Nairobi to secure travel documents, driven by deep-seated fears for their livelihoods and safety.
My sister fled DRC just to work legally. Now she fears for her life over a vague crackdown. So unfair.
I support local business protection, but mob violence against fruit stands is unacceptable. Where is the rule of law?
Are we sure this aligns with the African Continental Free Trade Area? The economic backlash could be severe.
Kibera has been running these businesses for decades. It feels like political distraction before the election year starts.
This is deeply troubling. Protecting locals shouldn’t mean terrorizing vulnerable migrants seeking safety and livelihoods.