Hundreds of Burundian nationals have for the second day gathered at their embassy in Nairobi as uncertainty grows among foreign traders following Kenya’s enforcement of rules governing small-scale businesses operated by non-citizens.
Long queues have been reported outside the Burundi Embassy along Dennis Pritt Road on Monday and Tuesday in the Kilimani area, with many Burundians seeking emergency travel documents and other documentation. Some have reportedly arrived carrying luggage as they consider returning to Burundi, while others are seeking to regularise their status and remain in Kenya.
The development follows President William Ruto’s directive for authorities to take action against foreigners engaged in small-scale businesses such as hawking and operating small retail shops without the required permits and licences. The government has said the measures are intended to protect opportunities for Kenyan traders and address concerns over foreigners conducting business in violation of immigration and licensing requirements.
The Burundi Embassy has been issuing free laissez-passer travel documents valid for one year within East African Community countries. The move is intended to facilitate travel for citizens who decide to leave Kenya, with Burundi also considering arrangements for buses to assist those returning home.
The situation has raised concerns among Burundian authorities, who have expressed dissatisfaction over reports of harassment and mistreatment of their citizens. Burundi has called for greater regional engagement to address the dispute and has urged the East African Community to intervene.
Kenyan authorities, however, have sought to distinguish between undocumented traders and foreign nationals who are legally resident and authorised to work. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has said properly documented foreigners, including Burundians and other East African nationals, are entitled to live and work in Kenya provided they comply with immigration requirements, business licensing rules and other applicable laws.
Sing’oei also visited the Burundi Embassy following concerns over the treatment of Burundian nationals and apologised for harassment arising from what officials described as misunderstandings surrounding the government directive.
The Kenyan government has also announced measures to improve documentation and registration of undocumented East African nationals. Government spokesperson Charles Owino said affected nationals would be encouraged to present themselves through their respective embassies for identification and registration as authorities work to establish their legal status.
The situation has been particularly sensitive because of the large number of East African nationals engaged in informal economic activities in Kenyan cities. Burundians, like other regional migrant communities, have established livelihoods through small-scale trading, including the sale of agricultural products, second-hand clothing and other goods.
The developments have also exposed a tension between Kenya’s efforts to protect employment and business opportunities for its citizens and its obligations under the East African Community framework, which promotes the free movement of people and labour among member states.
While some Burundians appear to be preparing to return home, others are seeking clarification of their legal status and options for continuing to work in Kenya. Authorities in both countries have emphasised the need for dialogue, proper documentation and compliance with Kenyan laws as efforts continue to ease tensions.
Mustaqbal
