In Kenya, undocumented foreigners running small businesses have been given 90 days to register and adapt their activities to local legislation. According bbc newsDuring registration, said persons will be considered legally present in the country.
This clarification came after the backlash over President William Ruto’s statement. On September 3, he said that all foreigners running small businesses must stop operating by September 7 as, in his view, such occupations should be reserved for Kenyans.
Immigrant concerns
The president’s statement caused concern among migrants. Some citizens of Burundi and other countries in the region went to embassies in search of documents to return to their homes or go to border points; Some of them were reportedly stranded there.
Burundian tuk-tuk driver Ndaikech Ali, who has worked in Nairobi for nine years, spoke of threats and harassment following the head of state’s statement. According to him, stopping working would deprive him of the income necessary to pay for housing and food. Philmon Eyob, coordinator of the Eritrean community in Nairobi, said some Eritreans and Ethiopians closed their establishments and stayed home for safety reasons.
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Some families have already been separated. Majengo resident Grace Wamaita said her Burundian husband left the day after the presidential directive, leaving her with five children.
Response and criticism from the authorities
Ruto’s remarks sparked a diplomatic row. Burundi’s foreign minister said hate speech against Burundians could have consequences for Kenyans abroad. Kenyan official Korir Singoei visited the Burundians at the embassy in Nairobi, apologized and assured them of protection from violence.
Critics called the president’s comments populist and said they could fuel xenophobia, but the government denied this. In a statement, Ruto’s spokesperson stressed that Kenya will remain an open and safe country and will protect the rights of people legally present on its territory. Within the East African Community, people can move relatively freely, but permits are required for employment and long-term residence.
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