Defense · Report Line
Kenya's trade ministry has warned foreign nationals that visa-free entry into the country does not grant them the right to work, as the government vows to shut down unlicensed small businesses run by foreigners. President William Ruto had set today as the deadline for foreigners operating small-scale businesses to cease work. The Burundian embassy in Kenya said it would offer emergency free travel documents to its citizens facing mistreatment.
The ministry stated there was a deliberate misuse of visa applications by some visitors, who entered Kenya as investors or tourists but then engaged in unauthorized business activities. Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui emphasized the need to align foreign activities with work permit provisions due to the high number of foreigners in retail and local trade sectors. Ruto previously stated Kenya remains open to foreign investment but argued investors should create jobs and expand production rather than compete with Kenyans in small businesses.
Critics described his comments as populist, while officials denied allegations of xenophobia. Burundi's Foreign Affairs Minister Edouard Bizimana urged Kenya to address concerns, citing a meeting with East African Community representatives. A foreign affairs official clarified that foreigners with proper documentation could continue activities legally.
However, concerns persist among foreign traders, with some warning of regional implications due to cross-border small-scale business activities.
Source: BBC
