Non-citizens in Kenya granted 90 days to update their documentation

The Kenyan authorities announced on Tuesday that foreigners operating businesses within the nation have a 90-day period to acquire or renew essential documents, such as work permits and business licenses. This initiative followed comments made by the president regarding foreign-owned enterprises that instigated concern among immigrant populations.

Presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed stated that government departments would oversee the procedure alongside foreign embassies. He cautioned against any threats, harassment, or intimidation directed toward foreign entrepreneurs.

Numerous Burundian nationals visited their embassy in Nairobi on Monday seeking documentation. Some expressed intentions to return to their home country out of fear for their safety.

A segment of the Kenyan populace has voiced grievances that foreigners have occupied low-skilled jobs and established small businesses, leading to what they perceive as unjust competition against locals.

Kenya's economy, recognized as the most robust in the East African region, has drawn both foreign investors and workers from neighboring nations.

President William Ruto acknowledged last week that he had received complaints from local business owners claiming that foreigners were competing unfairly.

He instructed Kenyan legislators to broaden a bill currently under consideration in parliament to ensure fair participation of foreigners in small businesses and to identify sectors that may be designated for locals.

This directive from the president has triggered anxiety within the Burundian and Congolese communities, with one entrepreneur, Eric Munahayo, reporting to local media that his shop in the outskirts of Nairobi was assaulted by unidentified individuals.

"I have been living harmoniously with Kenyans; I have integrated into the community and possess the proper licenses," he stated to reporters on Monday.

Mohamed emphasized that the registration initiative aims to ensure adherence to Kenyan laws and the East African regulations concerning the movement of goods, labor, and services.

"Every individual conducting business in Kenya is obligated to comply with relevant immigration, work-permit, registration, and licensing requirements. Over the forthcoming 90 days, the government will carry out a systematic regularization process to facilitate compliance," Mohamed remarked.

Korir Sing'oei, the permanent secretary in the Foreign Ministry, visited numerous Burundian nationals at their embassy in Nairobi on Monday and expressed regret for any misunderstandings regarding the president's directive, stating that the registration effort also seeks to safeguard foreigners.

"We merely want to ascertain your identities, where you reside, and your activities so we can ensure security for all," he conveyed to them.

The Burundian government has yet to respond to the latest events. However, Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana shared a video on Sunday showing a Kenyan threatening Burundians residing in Kenya, stating, "Kenyans live peacefully in Burundi. However, if this hostility towards Burundi persists, circumstances will undoubtedly change. The Kenyan government is accountable for the wellbeing of Burundians in Kenya."