Burundians rush to leave Kenya after crackdown on bus

World: Burundians rush to leave Kenya after crackdown on bus

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Burundians rush to leave Kenya after crackdown on businesses

The move sparked fear among many foreigners, particularly Burundians who make a living through street vending in Nairobi, prompting a rush to secure documents to return home.

Burundian nationals gather outside their embassy to apply for border passes as they prepare to travel back to their country following the Kenyan government’s directive on undocumented small-scale traders, in Nairobi on September 7, 2026. (AFP)

NAIROBI - Hundreds of Burundians living in Kenya flocked to their embassy in Nairobi on Monday seeking travel documents to leave the country, days after President William Ruto ordered the closure of small businesses run by foreigners.

Kenya has long attracted migrants from across the East African Community (EAC), whose members enjoy freedom of movement within the regional bloc.