Kenya Orders Crackdown on Foreign Small-Scale Traders Without Proper Documents

Hundreds of foreign nationals lacking proper documentation in Kenya have been urged to register through their respective embassies following a government directive targeting small-scale traders. On Monday, September 7, crowds of mostly young men carrying suitcases and personal belongings formed long queues outside the Burundian embassy in Nairobi seeking travel documents to return home, according to reporting by Reuters.

Queues Form at Nairobi Embassy After Sweeping Trade Order

President Ruto Orders Closure of Undocumented Foreign Businesses

The embassy queue materialized in the wake of an order issued by Kenyan President William Ruto last week. Following a meeting with local traders who had protested against tax reforms, Ruto instructed authorities to close down all small-scale businesses operated by foreign traders, starting Monday, September 7. Kenya’s trade ministry subsequently clarified that the enforcement action specifically applies to foreigners operating without valid work permits.

Foreign Nationals Voice Anxiety Over Sudden Policy Shift

Outside the diplomatic mission in Nairobi, individuals caught in the policy shift voiced anxiety over the sudden disruption. Peter Nakumujango, 62, told reporters outside the embassy that he was not leaving by choice and noted the uncertainty surrounding consular assistance. Another applicant, 18-year-old Munezero Farnke, stated that she had lived in the country for three years without an identification document and had originally planned to depart next year, urging authorities to grant additional time for planning or border crossings.

Photo: straitstimes.com

Refugees Face Direct Threats Amid Broader Crackdown

While Reuters reported no immediate signs of a physical crackdown unfolding across Nairobi streets on Monday, some Burundian nationals stated they had experienced direct threats from neighbors following Ruto’s public remarks. According to data from the United Nations refugee agency cited in the reports, approximately 16,000 Burundian refugees and asylum seekers reside in Kenya, many of whom sustain themselves through small-scale commerce in the capital by selling items such as used clothing and coffee.

Political Critics Accuse Administration of Deflecting Attention

Activist Hanifa Adan wrote in the Daily Nation newspaper that administrations facing economic collapse frequently seek external targets.

Tata Chemicals Halts Kenyan Operations Following Order

In response, Tata Chemicals stated that it respects the authority of the Kenyan government and remains committed to constructive engagement.