Hundreds of foreign nationals have reportedly begun leaving Kenya following President William Ruto’s directive targeting small businesses owned by foreigners, with some Burundians comparing their treatment to xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The departures come after foreign-owned small businesses were given until Monday to shut down, a move that has reportedly sparked fear and uncertainty among migrant communities, particularly Burundians working as street vendors in Nairobi.
Burundians Queue at Embassy
Large numbers of Burundian nationals reportedly gathered at their embassy in Nairobi on Monday, with many carrying luggage and personal belongings as they prepared to return home.
Some migrants said they were forced to leave their businesses and livelihoods with little warning.
A Burundian pastor, quoted in reports, alleged that two of his neighbours had been attacked and robbed following the government’s announcement.
He also compared the situation to xenophobic attacks against foreigners in South Africa, describing the treatment of migrants in Kenya as unfair.
Burundi Condemns Reported Violence
Burundi’s Foreign Minister, Edouard Bizimana, condemned what he described as violence against Burundian nationals in Kenya and called on the Kenyan government to ensure their safety.
Bizimana said allowing civilians to take matters into their own hands could create room for violence, looting and xenophobia.
He urged Kenyan authorities to take responsibility for protecting foreign nationals affected by the situation.
Kenyan Government Clarifies Position
Kenya’s junior Foreign Minister, Korir Sing’Oei, reportedly visited the Burundian embassy on Monday, where he apologised to those affected and assured them that police would protect areas where violence had been reported.
Sing’Oei said President Ruto’s remarks had been misunderstood, stressing that the government’s focus was on documentation and registration rather than expelling foreign nationals.
Government spokesperson Charles Owino also said authorities had opened a formal documentation window and urged Burundians without proper documentation to present themselves at their embassy.
The situation remains tense as foreign nationals seek clarity on the government’s directive and its implications for their businesses and continued stay in Kenya.
