Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered a crackdown on foreign traders operating small-scale businesses in the country, citing the need to protect local traders and hawkers from unfair competition. The directive was given during a meeting with small-scale traders at State House in Nairobi, where Ruto emphasized that foreign traders would only be welcomed if their investments aligned with national interests.
The move comes amid growing concerns over economic stability and job creation, with Ruto stressing the importance of fostering local entrepreneurship. The order follows recent criticism from lawmakers, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who warned that Ruto’s remarks on foreign investments could erode investor confidence. Sifuna expressed concerns during a speech in Bungoma County, highlighting the potential impact on youth employment and economic growth.
The government has not yet released specific measures or timelines for the crackdown, but officials have indicated that foreign traders will be required to adhere to stricter regulations. This decision reflects broader efforts to balance foreign investment with domestic economic priorities, a challenge that has sparked debate among political and business leaders.
