Government Clarifies Immigration Directives, Assures East African Nationals of Protection and Dignity
By Bruno Aero Family Staff Writer
Nairobi, Kenya September 7, 2026
The Government of Kenya has moved to clarify recent immigration and small-scale trade directives, emphasizing that the measures are aimed at protecting local livelihoods, strengthening regulatory systems, and promoting orderly economic participation rather than targeting foreign nationals.
The government said the directives announced by President William Ruto on September 2, 2026, were intended to regulate small-scale retail and informal trade activities in line with proposed local content reforms.
The Government said the measures seek to safeguard vulnerable sectors of the domestic economy while maintaining the integrity of Kenya’s national identity systems.
“The intention of these measures is to protect vulnerable sectors of our domestic economy, safeguard local livelihoods, and maintain the integrity of our national identity systems,” the statement said.
The Government acknowledged the historical and regional ties that have seen many East African nationals, including Burundian citizens, live and work in Kenya, noting their contribution to the country’s trade, culture, and socio-economic development.
Kenya has announced the establishment of a formal Documentation and Registration Window DRW to assist undocumented East African Community nationals residing in the country.
Under the initiative, affected individuals have been encouraged to present themselves to their respective High Commissions or Embassies for formal identity registration.
The Government said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will work closely with the Embassy of Burundi and other regional partners to facilitate the regularisation process.
“During this process, all individuals undergoing registration will be presumed legally present in the Republic of Kenya,”
The statement noted, adding that the arrangement will enable them to access essential services, including healthcare, banking, and legal protections.
The Government further assured foreign nationals that Kenya remains committed to regional integration and the principles of the East African Community Common Market Protocol.
It dismissed reports portraying the directives as a blanket ban or hostile action against foreign nationals, describing such interpretations as inaccurate.
“Kenya views its East African neighbours not as foreigners, but as brothers and sisters of our shared community,”
The Government stated, reaffirming that regional cooperation remains central to its policies.
The Government also issued a strong warning against harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Security agencies, local authorities, and the business community have been directed to ensure that no foreign national—whether documented or undergoing registration is subjected to unlawful treatment.
Authorities said measures are also being strengthened, in partnership with civil society and humanitarian organisations, to monitor migrant safety and ensure fair and dignified treatment.
The Government reiterated that Kenya remains an open, hospitable, and law-abiding nation committed to peaceful coexistence with its East African neighbours.
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