Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered the closure of small businesses owned by foreigners, prompting concern among refugee communities in Nairobi. The directive, aimed at boosting local economies, has led to heightened anxiety, particularly among Burundian nationals who have been disproportionately affected. Many have turned to the Burundi embassy in Nairobi to obtain travel documents, fearing increased restrictions on their ability to work or move freely.
Senator Edwin Sifuna has voiced alarm over the impact on refugees, emphasizing that they require access to basic services such as food and healthcare. He warned that the policy could exacerbate existing hardships for vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, the government has defended the move as necessary to protect national interests and promote economic self-reliance.
The order has also raised questions about the legal status of foreign nationals in Kenya, with some fearing potential deportation or loss of residency rights. While the government has not yet announced specific measures for those affected, the situation remains uncertain. As tensions mount, the humanitarian implications continue to draw attention from both local and international observers.
The directive has sparked a broader debate on immigration policy and economic integration, with calls for clearer guidelines to ensure the rights of both citizens and foreign residents are protected.
