Burundians Leave Kenya as Ruto Orders Crackdown on Foreign Traders

Burundians Leave Kenya as Ruto Orders Crackdown on Foreign Traders

Hundreds of Burundian traders began leaving Kenya on Monday after President William Ruto ordered the closure of small foreign-owned businesses operating without valid work permits.

Many Burundians, mostly young men, gathered at their embassy in Nairobi to obtain travel documents required to return home.

Some carried suitcases, bags and other belongings as long queues formed outside the embassy.

Peter Nakumujango, 62, said he was returning to Burundi unwillingly after being forced to leave Kenya.

“So many people have come here, and we don’t know when we will receive help,” he said.

“I am not going home of my own free will. I was forced to leave,” Nakumujango added.

The development followed a meeting between Ruto and Kenyan traders protesting against recent tax reforms.

After the meeting, Ruto directed authorities to close small businesses operated by foreign traders from Monday.

The Ministry of Commerce later clarified that the directive applied to foreigners operating businesses without valid work permits.

There was no immediate sign of a major crackdown in Nairobi on Monday following the president’s directive.

However, some Burundians gathered at the embassy said they had received threats from neighbours after Ruto’s announcement.

The development has heightened concerns among foreign traders as Kenyan authorities prepare to enforce the new directive.