Written by Alice Njoki
There has been Xenophobic comments ,violence going around in Kenya because of President William Ruto’s directive on foreign to shut down small-scale businesses operated by foreigners which has led to a 90-day period for affected foreign traders to obtain or update the documents required to legally operate their businesses in Kenya
Ruto directed authorities to close small-scale businesses operated by foreign traders on September 2,2026, saying such businesses should be left to Kenyans. The President had acknowledged receiving complaints from small-business owners who said foreign traders were unfairly competing with them. He also directed lawmakers to expand a Bill before Parliament to regulate foreign participation in small businesses and identify sectors that could be reserved for Kenyan citizens.
The directive was initially expected to take effect from Monday, September 7. However, the government later clarified that the exercise would focus on foreign nationals operating businesses without the required immigration documents, work permits, business registrations and licences.
Foreign business operators have now been given 90 days to regularise their status. The government says the process will be carried out in coordination with foreign embassies, allowing undocumented foreign nationals to obtain or update the documents required to legally operate in Kenya. Those who complete the process will continue to have their rights protected, while enforcement is expected after the 90-day period.
The announcement has affected foreign traders from neighbouring countries, with concern particularly visible among Burundian and Congolese communities. Hundreds of Burundians went to their embassy in Nairobi this week seeking travel documents, with some saying they feared harassment and were considering returning home.
The Kenyan government has, however, said the process is not intended to target foreign nationals based on their nationality. Presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the government has zero tolerance for harassment, intimidation and xenophobia and urged undocumented foreign nationals to use the 90-day period to regularise their status.
The developments have also prompted a response from Burundi. Foreign Affairs Minister Édouard Bizimana has called for the protection of Burundian citizens in Kenya amid concerns over anti-Burundian hate speech and reports of harassment.
Kenya hosts about 16,000 Burundian refugees and asylum seekers, according to UNHCR, many of whom are involved in small-scale businesses in Nairobi. The regularisation exercise is now underway, with foreign business operators expected to ensure they meet Kenya’s immigration, work and business requirements before the 90-day period ends.