Govt opens registration of undocumented foreigners living in Kenya

Kenya's government has introduced a temporary amnesty for undocumented East African nationals, following a surge of Burundians seeking travel documents at their embassy in Nairobi. The move came after Kenyan President William Ruto urged authorities to shut down small-scale businesses run by foreign traders, sparking protests from traders and creating a tense atmosphere outside Burundi's embassy.

Kenya's trade ministry clarified that the order applied to foreigners operating without work permits. Despite initial chaos, a spokesperson for Ruto's administration emphasized the government's stance against harassment, intimidation, and xenophobia, and encouraged undocumented nationals to register at their embassies. This registration period aims to bring undocumented individuals out of hiding and provide them with access to essential services such as health, banking, and legal protections.

Around 16,000 Burundian refugees and asylum seekers currently reside in Kenya, many of whom operate small businesses selling items like coffee and used clothes. The Burundian ambassador to Kenya and Burundi's Foreign Affairs Minister have not yet commented on the situation. Critics have accused Ruto of blaming foreigners for Kenya's economic struggles as he prepares for the upcoming election.