Kenya's trade ministry has issued a warning to foreign nationals, stating that visa-free entry into the country does not confer the right to work. This comes as the government intends to close down unlicensed small businesses operated by foreigners.
President William Ruto had previously set today, 7 September 2026, as the deadline for foreign nationals involved in small-scale businesses to stop their operations. The trade ministry stated that there has been a "deliberate misuse of visa applications by some visitors," with some entering as investors or tourists but then engaging in business activities that violate their declared status.
Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui highlighted the need to align the activities of the high number of foreigners in the retail and local trade sectors with work permit provisions. Last week, President Ruto said that while Kenya is open to foreign investment, it is not acceptable for individuals to come from other countries to be hawkers or open small shops, arguing that investors should create jobs and expand production.
The Burundian embassy in Kenya announced it would provide emergency free travel documents to its citizens who wish to return home, amid reports of mistreatment of Burundians. Burundi's Foreign Affairs Minister Edouard Bizimana posted on X that "Kenyans in Burundi were living peacefully but if the hate speech against Burundi continues things will certainty change," adding that the "Kenya government is responsible for the lives of Burundians living in Kenya."
A top official in Kenya's foreign affairs ministry clarified on Sunday that foreigners with the necessary documentation, including work permits and licences, could continue their activities. Permanent Secretary Korir Sing'oei stated that Burundian nationals and other Africans are free to live in Kenya provided they conduct business or work according to Kenyan laws. However, this clarification has not fully eased concerns among some foreign traders.