In brief
Kenya's trade ministry has announced a blanket ban on visa‑free foreign nationals operating small shops, citing misuse of visa applications for retail activities. President William Ruto, citing competition with Kenyan traders, set a deadline for foreign businesses to stop operating. Burundi's foreign ministry offered to provide travel documents for nationals wishing to return amid fears of mistreatment. The Kenyan government clarified that those with proper work permits may continue, but many traders remain uneasy about possible regional fallout. The move raises questions about trade relations within the East African Community.
Kenya’s trade ministry has warned foreign nationals that visa‑free entry does not permit small‑scale trading, pledging to shut down unlicensed shops run by foreigners.
President William Ruto set a deadline for overseas business owners to cease operations, arguing that tourists and investors should avoid competing with local retailers.
In response, the Burundian embassy announced emergency travel documents for citizens wishing to return, amid reports of harassment that could spark regional tension.
The trade ministry said some visitors deliberately misused visa applications, entering Kenya as tourists or investors and then engaging in banned commercial activities.
“Because of the high number of foreigners involved in retail, we must align activities with work‑permit provisions,” Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui told reporters.
Ruto defended the decision by stating Kenya remained open to investment, but small‑scale commerce across borders should not crowd local markets.
Critics dubbed the move a populist risk that might inflame xenophobia; the government countered that such allegations were unfounded.
Burundi’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Edouard Bizimana, warned that Kenya’s actions could harm peaceful coexistence in the region, demanding protection for Burundians in Kenya.
A Kenyan foreign‑affairs official clarified that foreigners with proper documentation—including work permits and licences—may continue activities, easing some fears but not all.
Alexis Ntinanirwa, head of the Association of Burundians in Kenya, encouraged patience among Burundian traders but warned that the fallout could extend to Kenyans operating in other East African countries.
The policy shift underscores the delicate balance Kenya seeks between encouraging investment and protecting local enterprises in a region still grappling with cross‑border trade dynamics.
