Kenyans Attack Burundians, Loot Businesses Amid Ruto’s Foreign Trader Crackdown
Tensions have escalated in parts of Kenya following President William Ruto’s directive targeting foreigners operating small-scale businesses, with some Burundian traders reporting attacks, harassment and the looting of their businesses.
The developments have sparked growing fear among Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya, with hundreds rushing to the Burundi Embassy in Nairobi to seek travel documents or assistance in regularising their status.
President Ruto directed the government to move against foreigners involved in small-scale businesses such as hawking and petty retail, arguing that such activities should provide opportunities for Kenyan citizens. The enforcement exercise began on Monday, September 7, 2026.
However, the directive has created confusion and anxiety among foreign traders, particularly Burundians who have operated businesses in Kenya for years.
Burundian Trader Reports Losing Business
One Burundian trader who had lived in Kenya for about 10 years reportedly broke down after claiming that his shop had been looted, leaving him with virtually nothing after years of building the business.
The trader questioned why his property had been targeted, appealing to President Ruto over the situation. His account emerged as reports of harassment and attacks against some foreign traders spread.
Other reports have also alleged that Burundians have been attacked and robbed in different parts of the country. AFP reported claims by a Burundian pastor that two of his neighbours had been attacked and robbed, although the news agency said it could not independently verify those claims.
Burundi’s Foreign Minister Édouard Bizimana has condemned what he described as violence against foreigners, particularly Burundians, and called on the Kenyan government to protect its citizens.
He warned that allowing civilians to take the law into their own hands could create room for violence, looting and xenophobia.
Burundians Flock to Embassy
The tension has prompted large numbers of Burundians to visit the Embassy of Burundi along Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi.
Some are seeking emergency travel documents to return home, while others are attempting to regularise their documentation so they can legally remain in Kenya.
Images and videos from Monday showed long queues outside the embassy, with some Burundians carrying passports, identification documents and permits.
Burundi has also started preparations to facilitate the return of some of its nationals from Kenya amid the uncertainty surrounding the crackdown.
Government Says Crackdown Is Not Against All Foreigners
Kenyan officials have moved to clarify that the directive should not be interpreted as an order requiring all foreigners to leave the country.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei said foreign nationals who possess the required work permits, licences and other documentation remain legally protected to operate businesses in Kenya.
The government has also opened a registration and documentation window for undocumented East African nationals to allow them to regularise their status.
Police have similarly urged Kenyans not to harass or discriminate against foreigners, warning that anyone exploiting the directive to promote xenophobia or violence could face legal consequences.
Concern Over Retaliation
The situation has raised concerns about Kenya’s relations with neighbouring countries, particularly Burundi and Rwanda.
There are also fears that violence against foreign nationals in Kenya could trigger retaliatory pressure against Kenyans living or working in neighbouring countries.
Kenya’s ambassador to Burundi, Henry Wambuma, has assured Kenyans living in Burundi that they remain safe, while urging them to comply with the laws and administrative requirements of their host country.
The unfolding situation has therefore shifted the debate beyond competition between Kenyan and foreign traders to questions surrounding regional integration, the rights of East African citizens, immigration enforcement and the protection of foreign nationals.
For now, authorities face pressure to enforce the government’s policy while preventing the crackdown from turning into widespread xenophobic attacks or unlawful destruction of foreign-owned businesses.
Burundi hawker being beaten by nduthi guy😥kumbe ni ukweli enyewe ruto ni mnyama pic.twitter.com/Wvgl4DUDUV
— Tm24 (@GeniusOb8832) September 7, 2026
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