Kenya's exports now contribute 45 per cent less to the national economy than they did two decades ago, according to a report cited by the Eastleigh Voice. The decline means exports account for nearly half their former share of economic output, even though the overall value of Kenya's economy has grown over the same period. The findings point to a long-term weakening of the country's export sector relative to other drivers of growth.

Kenya's next economic challenge should not simply be to export more, but to capture more value from what it already produces, according to Capital FM. The outlet argues the country must stop exporting wealth in raw form and instead add value to its output domestically.

The Kenyan government has clarified President William Ruto's directive targeting foreigners engaged in small-scale businesses. Government spokesperson Charles Owino said on September 7 that the measures aim to regulate informal trade and protect local livelihoods, not to ban East African nationals from the country. According to the government, the core intent is to protect vulnerable sectors of the economy rather than exclude foreign traders entirely.

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.

Kenya's government on Tuesday gave foreigners running businesses in the country 90 days to obtain or update required documents, including work permits and business licenses. According to presidential spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, government agencies will carry out the process. The move followed remarks by the president about foreign-owned businesses that sparked panic in immigrant communities in Nairobi and elsewhere.

The Ugandan government has urged its citizens living in Kenya to formalize their immigration and business statuses following President William Ruto's 90-day compliance ultimatum for foreigners. Ugandan Prime Minister and East African Community Affairs Minister Rebecca Kadaga advised nationals to seek assistance at the Ugandan High Commission in Nairobi in order to meet the new legal requirements, according to Ghafla Kenya.