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 President William Ruto has issued a directive targeting foreign-owned small businesses, causing anxiety among traders across East Africa, particularly Ugandans operating in Kenya. According to NTV Kenya, civil society organisations have challenged the move as unconstitutional. Commentator Kiwala Caroline Tahir, writing for Watchdog Uganda, argues the directive should serve as a wake-up call for Uganda to strengthen its domestic business environment so that its traders can build sustainable enterprises at home rather than depending on opportunities abroad.

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.

Several foreign nationals, including Ugandans, Burundians, Rwandans, Congolese and Sudanese, have been arriving in the Kenyan border towns of Busia and Malaba, according to NTV Uganda. The arrivals come as Kenya intensifies a crackdown on foreign nationals. The report, published on 8 September 2026, does not specify how many people have crossed or what prompted the Kenyan operation, but it indicates movement of multiple nationalities toward the border area.

Kenya's government has moved to crack down on foreigners operating small-scale businesses without the required documentation, drawing renewed attention to the country's business environment. According to Business Today, the development links immigration and investment, two areas often discussed separately, with the government's clarification centred on the distinction between entering Kenya and being permitted to conduct business there. The report examines what the enforcement drive could mean for businesses and investors operating in the country.

Concerns about xenophobia are growing in Kenya following President William Ruto's order for a crackdown on foreigners working as hawkers. According to the Eastleigh Voice, the move has raised fears that foreign nationals could face discrimination or hostility. The Kenyan government has, however, insisted that foreign traders who are legally documented will remain protected under the law. The development has drawn attention to the treatment of migrant workers and traders in the country, as authorities balance enforcement measures with assurances of protection for those with valid documentation.