Kenya says it will register undocumented Burundians and other East Africans living in the country, following days of anxiety over President William Ruto’s directive targeting foreigners in small-scale businesses.
News
On Monday, hundreds of Burundians scrambled to process travel documents amid uncertainty over whether they could remain in Kenya.
Charles Owino, the Kenyan government spokesperson, has now said those without proper documents should register through their embassies or high commissions as the authorities work with diplomatic missions to regularise their status.
Those undergoing registration would be presumed legally in Kenya during the process, Owino said.
Details
Ruto had set Monday as the deadline for foreigners operating small-scale businesses to cease work. The directive came after the trade ministry said some foreigners exploit visa rules to work without the required permits.
Long queues were seen outside Burundi’s embassy in the capital, Nairobi, after it said it would offer free emergency travel documents to citizens who wanted to go back home.
Others were seen racing to buy bus tickets.
Analysis
Some Burundians have reportedly faced hostility after President Ruto ordered action against foreign street vendors and those operating small shops, saying such jobs should be protected for Kenyans.
Kenyan officials have since sought to reassure neighbouring countries that there is no blanket ban on foreign traders.
Addressing a news conference on Monday, Owino said the government had opened registration and documentation of all foreign nationals residing in Kenya without valid documents.
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