Kenya has tightened restrictions on foreign nationals seeking to establish businesses in the country, President William Ruto has announced, amid growing tensions over the presence of expatriates and their role in the local economy. As an influential member of the East African Community (EAC), which brings together eight countries, Kenya has long attracted entrepreneurs and workers from neighbouring states, drawn by its relatively dynamic economy and expanding business opportunities.
However, the growing presence of foreign traders has increasingly become a source of concern among some Kenyans, who accuse newcomers of taking jobs and commercial opportunities that they believe should benefit local residents.
“Starting next week, all [foreign] traders operating these small businesses will have to close them,” President William Ruto said, according to the BBC. He added that it was “inconceivable” for someone to come from China or elsewhere to work as a street vendor or run a small shop.
Tensions rise over foreign traders
The latest announcement follows an incident in July that triggered widespread reactions online. A video circulated widely on social media showing a Kenyan man confronting a Burundian trader in Nairobi and accusing him of taking economic opportunities away from locals.
The incident raised concerns among Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya. Fred Ngoga, a Burundian specialist in regional conflict prevention, called for better protection of his compatriots in the country.
However, he stressed that the incident should not be seen as representative of the wider Kenyan population.
“Most Kenyans are honest and good people who warmly welcome their brothers and sisters from Burundi,” he said, arguing that the hostility shown in the video did not reflect the views of the entire population.
Nairobi seeks to protect regional ties
The Kenyan government has also sought to reassure Burundians and other East African nationals living in the country.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has been working to protect foreign residents amid the tensions, while the government faces the challenge of balancing economic opportunities for its citizens with its regional commitments.
The issue is particularly sensitive within the EAC, where citizens of member states benefit from regional integration initiatives aimed at facilitating the movement of people, workers and businesses across borders.
Ruto’s announcement is therefore likely to fuel further debate over the place of foreign traders in Kenya and the balance between protecting local economic opportunities and maintaining East Africa’s regional integration.
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