Burundians Flee Kenya as Ruto’s New Business Directive Takes Effect

Tensions between Kenya and Burundi have risen after Kenya began enforcing a directive targeting foreign nationals operating small-scale retail and hawking businesses.

At Malaba, a major crossing on the Kenya-Uganda border, travellers have been rushing to secure bus tickets to return home amid uncertainty over the crackdown. In Nairobi, Burundian nationals have gathered outside their embassy seeking emergency travel documents to facilitate their return.

The situation follows a directive issued by President William Ruto on 2 September, which took effect on 7 September. The directive ordered the removal of hawking and retail businesses operated by foreign nationals.

President Ruto said foreign investment should be directed towards larger businesses that create jobs and increase production rather than competing with local traders in informal markets. The Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry has supported the directive, saying some foreign traders were operating in breach of visa or other regulatory requirements. It said foreigners who meet the legal requirements must obtain the necessary operating licences before resuming their businesses. 

Burundi's government has responded by protesting the treatment of its citizens in Kenya. In a statement, the Burundian Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Kenyan authorities of failing to protect Burundian traders, claiming that some had been dispossessed of their businesses and subjected to violence following the President's remarks.

While recognising Kenya's right to regulate trade within its territory, Burundi urged Nairobi to protect the dignity and safety of its citizens. It also referred to Kenya and Burundi's shared membership of the East African Community, describing the bloc as "one united family".

The Burundian government warned that it would hold Kenya responsible for the safety of its nationals. It said Burundi "reserves the right to take the necessary measures under the framework of reciprocity" if Burundian citizens continue to face harm.

Meanwhile, Burundian traders in Kenya have appealed to President Ruto to reconsider the directive. They said they were unprepared for the sudden enforcement measures and that many depend on their small businesses for their livelihoods.