Kenya's foreign trader crackdown sparks fear among migrant communities
Kenya has ordered a crackdown on small-scale businesses operated by foreign nationals, citing a desire to prioritize local workers. The directive has caused significant anxiety among migrant communities and raised concerns about xenophobic tensions.
Why it matters
The move highlights rising economic nationalism and anti-migrant sentiment in parts of Africa, impacting regional labor markets.
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Simon Maina / AFP via Getty Images Burundian nationals queue outside their embassy in Nairobi to obtain travel documents, amid uncertainty following Kenya's crackdown on undocumented small-scale traders. NAIROBI, Kenya — In Kibera, one of Nairobi's largest informal settlements, it's another busy morning. People rush to work, hailing matatus along the roadside as vendors set up for the day.
But for foreign nationals who run small businesses here, it's far from business as usual.
Last week, President William Ruto ordered authorities to shut down small-scale businesses operated by foreign traders, saying such work should be left to Kenyans.
The president gave them until this week to comply, prompting fear among migrant communities.
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