Burundian nationals living in Kenya are reportedly rushing to leave the country ahead of an anticipated government crackdown on foreign traders, according to the Sowetan. The reported exodus follows a call by Kenya's president for authorities to shut down all small-scale businesses operated by foreigners who lack valid permits. The directive targets unpermitted foreign-owned enterprises, and its announcement has heightened anxiety among immigrant trading communities, prompting many Burundians to prepare for departure before enforcement begins.

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 political analyst Arnold Maliba has argued that Burundian nationals are not the country's real problem, blaming President William Ruto's leadership instead, according to Tuko. The remarks follow Ruto's 2 September announcement of a crackdown on foreign hawkers and small-scale traders, with enforcement beginning on 7 September. The directive has drawn criticism from figures like Maliba, who contend the government's economic management, rather than foreign traders, is to blame for Kenya's challenges.

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.

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.

The Kenyan government has denied a report by French newspaper Le Monde alleging that President William Ruto ordered foreign nationals to close small businesses across the country. Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing'Oei said the President's remarks were taken out of context, explaining they were made during discussions on the Local Content Bill, 2025, currently under parliamentary review. In a post on X, Sing'Oei assured that foreign traders and workers complying with Kenyan laws may continue operating.