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 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.

Hundreds of foreign traders, including Ugandans, have begun leaving Kenya after a directive by President William Ruto restricting foreigners from small-scale trade took effect on 7 September, according to the Uganda Standard. A group of affected Ugandans arrived at the Busia border crossing after departing Kenya. Ruto issued the order on 2 September, prompting the exodus of hawkers and other foreign small-scale traders from the country.

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.

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.

Kenyan President William Ruto has directed that the Local Content Bill, 2025, be expanded to regulate foreign participation in small-scale trade, giving foreign traders 90 days as certain business activities are set to be reserved for Kenyan citizens. According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the move responds to complaints from local traders about the impact of foreign operators on micro and small enterprises in the informal sector.