Kenya restricts foreigners’ work in small-scale trade
In Kenya, the Ministry of Trade has warned foreigners that visa-free entry into the country does not grant the right to work. The authorities plan to close unlicensed small businesses run by citizens of other countries, BBC News reports.
Kenyan President William Ruto has set today as the deadline for foreigners engaged in small-scale trade to cease operations. At the same time, the authorities did not specify how many foreign nationals work in this sector or how many people could be affected by the restrictions.
Permit requirements
The Ministry of Trade said that some visitors had deliberately abused visa applications. According to the ministry, some people enter Kenya as investors or tourists and later begin business activities contrary to their declared status.
Trade Minister Lee Kinyanjui said that, due to the significant number of foreigners in retail and local trade, their activities must be brought into compliance with work permit requirements. Earlier, Ruto stressed that Kenya is open to foreign investment, but investors must create jobs and expand production rather than compete with Kenyans in small businesses.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Burundi’s reaction
On the eve of the restrictions’ introduction, Burundi’s embassy in Kenya said it would issue free emergency travel documents to its citizens wishing to return home. This came amid reports of mistreatment of Burundians.
Burundi’s Foreign Minister Édouard Bizimana, following an emergency meeting with representatives of the East African Community, said he had asked the Kenyan ambassador to convey the Burundi government’s concerns to the country’s government and ensure that no Burundian would face mistreatment.
Kenyan Foreign Ministry official Korir Sing’Oei said that foreigners with the necessary documents, including work permits and licences, may continue their activities. Alexis Ntinanirwa, head of the Association of Burundians in Kenya, urged small-scale traders from Burundi to avoid confrontation with police and warned of possible consequences for the region, where Kenyans also operate small businesses.
