Kenya’s government has apologised to Burundian nationals over harassment linked to confusion surrounding a crackdown on unlicensed foreign traders, according to Capital FM. The statement, reported from Nairobi on September 7, said authorities would tighten security for immigrants as enforcement continues. The report frames the apology as an effort to reassure Burundians while maintaining measures against unlicensed trading.

Kenya's Ambassador to Burundi, Henry Wambuma, has assured Kenyan citizens living in Burundi that they remain safe, stating that bilateral relations between the two East African nations remain intact despite an ongoing crackdown on foreign small-scale traders in Kenya. In a diplomatic address issued on Monday, September 7, 2026, Wambuma urged Kenyans residing in Burundi to remain calm, according to Ghafla Kenya.

According to Tuko, hundreds of Burundians and other foreign nationals gathered at Nairobi’s Country Bus Station and left for Uganda as Kenyan authorities intensified a crackdown linked to President William Ruto on illegal immigrants and unpermitted businesses. The report describes crowded departures and heightened fear among affected communities, but provides no casualty figures or official government statement confirming the scale of enforcement.

Hundreds of Burundians queued outside their embassy in Nairobi on Monday seeking travel documents to return home, following President William Ruto's order for a crackdown on small-scale foreign traders in Kenya. According to Khusoko, most of those in line were young men, some carrying suitcases or a single bag of belongings. The development signals rising pressure on foreign traders operating in the country and prompted many Burundian nationals to prepare for departure.

Kenyan singer Bien-Aimé Baraza has commented on a government crackdown targeting foreign nationals, including Burundians, operating small-scale businesses in Kenya without required permits. According to Ghafla Kenya, the artist called for African solidarity, warning that the treatment of one African community could affect others living and working across the continent.

A trader at Nairobi's Gikomba market has explained why she prefers hiring Burundian workers, as President Ruto's government cracks down on foreigners employed in small businesses. According to Tuko, the trader warned that the departure of Burundian shoe washers from the market is affecting operations, highlighting her concerns over the impact of the enforcement measures targeting foreign workers in the informal sector.