Kenya Gives Foreign Businesses 90 Days to Regularize Operations
Kenya announces a 90-day window for foreign business owners to comply with permits and licenses, following tensions over competition and security concerns.
The Kenyan government has announced a 90-day period for foreign nationals operating businesses in the country to regularize their status. The exercise, confirmed on Tuesday, requires business owners to obtain or update necessary work permits and business licenses, with government agencies coordinating with foreign embassies to facilitate the process.
The move comes in the wake of remarks by President William Ruto, who acknowledged complaints from local small-business owners about competition from foreigners. The president directed lawmakers to amend pending legislation to address fair participation in small businesses and identify sectors that could be reserved for Kenyan citizens.
The announcement triggered anxiety among immigrant communities, particularly Burundian and Congolese nationals. Hundreds of Burundian citizens gathered at their embassy in Nairobi to secure documents, with some expressing fears for their safety and considering returning home. One Burundian businessman reported that his shop in the Nairobi suburbs was attacked by unknown individuals, despite his claim of holding valid licenses and living peacefully alongside Kenyans.
Presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed emphasized that the registration drive aims to ensure compliance with Kenyan law and East African Community protocols on the movement of goods, labor, and services. He cautioned against any threats, harassment, or intimidation of foreign businesspeople during the process.
Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary Korir Sing'oei visited Burundian citizens at their embassy and apologized for any misrepresentation of the president's directive. He clarified that the exercise is also intended to protect foreigners by establishing a clear record of who they are and where they operate.
Tensions have risen diplomatically as well. Burundi's Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana shared a video of a Kenyan making threats against Burundians, warning that continued hate speech could affect bilateral relations. He noted that Kenyans live peacefully in Burundi and held the Kenyan government responsible for the safety of Burundian nationals within its borders.