The Kenyan government has outlined new requirements targeting foreigners operating small businesses in the country, as it moves to enforce an order issued by President William Ruto, according to Soko Directory. The crackdown specifies which foreign nationals and business activities fall within its scope, though full details of the requirements were not provided in the initial report. The measures form part of broader efforts by the administration to regulate foreign participation in the small business sector.

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.

The East Africa Law Society (EALS) has called on the Kenyan government to ensure its crackdown on unlicensed foreign traders is conducted in accordance with the law. In a statement issued in Nairobi, the regional legal body emphasised that enforcement measures against illegal foreign traders must follow due process and respect legal standards. The appeal comes as Kenyan authorities pursue action against foreign nationals trading without proper licences, a move that has drawn attention from legal and business stakeholders across East Africa.

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.

East African human rights organisations, including the East African Law Society and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, have cautioned President William Ruto over his administration's crackdown on foreign-run small businesses. According to the Eastleigh Voice, the bodies warned that enforcement must comply with the law and avoid discrimination, profiling, and rights violations against foreign nationals operating in Kenya.

Kenya’s government has given foreign traders a 90-day regularisation window to comply with the country’s business rules, according to Eastleigh Voice. The outlet reported that once the period ends, authorities will firmly and strictly enforce immigration, work-permit, registration and licensing requirements in line with the law and due process. The warning applies to foreign traders operating under Kenya’s regulatory framework.