Kenya has announced the formation of a Joint Task Team with Burundi, the UNHCR, and the IOM to address the humanitarian needs of Burundian nationals following recent tensions. The move comes after Kenya extended the regularization window for foreign nationals to 90 days, as part of efforts to manage the growing crisis. The decision follows a presidential directive targeting unlicensed foreign traders, which has led to a surge in Burundian nationals seeking to leave the country.
Hundreds of Burundian migrants are scrambling to secure travel documents as the Kenyan government intensifies its crackdown on unregistered traders. President William Ruto imposed a strict deadline for such traders to cease operations, citing widespread violations of visa rules. The situation has raised concerns among regional neighbors, including Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and the DRC, which have expressed diplomatic caution over Kenya’s actions.
Burundi has condemned Kenya’s “xenophobic acts,” signaling potential diplomatic friction. The Joint Task Team aims to provide support to Burundian nationals affected by the crisis, including assistance with travel and legal documentation. The situation highlights the complex interplay between migration policies and regional diplomacy in East Africa.
Regional peers are on alert as Kenya’s actions may impact the stability of the region. The humanitarian response underscores the challenges of managing cross-border migration and the need for coordinated efforts between nations.
