'It's like a dog set loose on us' - fear over Kenya's crackdown on foreign traders

What the report says

Kenya is facing backlash after President William Ruto ordered a crackdown on foreign nationals working in small-scale trade and related businesses, a move that has left many migrants fearing harassment and forced return. The BBC reported from Nairobi and other areas where Burundian, Eritrean, Ethiopian and other regional migrants said the announcement had made them feel unwelcome, with some going to embassies or border points to seek travel documents or leave the country.

According to the report, Ruto said foreign nationals had until 7 September to leave petty trading and that certain low-level jobs should be reserved for Kenyans. The government later tried to clarify the policy, saying undocumented foreigners running small businesses would have 90 days to register and comply with local laws, and that those in the process would be treated as living legally in Kenya. A Kenyan foreign affairs official also visited the Burundian embassy to apologise and promise protection from violence after concerns grew about hostile treatment.

The issue has sparked debate over xenophobia, economic protectionism and Kenya’s obligations within the East African Community, which allows freer movement of people but still requires permits for work and residence. Some critics said the president’s language was interpreted as an order to expel foreigners, while supporters argued the policy aimed to protect Kenyan jobs. The fallout matters because many migrants support families in Kenya and abroad, and because the dispute has already strained diplomatic ties, including with Burundi.