Kenya grants 90-day window for foreign traders to regularise status

Kenya has introduced a 90-day window for foreign workers and small-scale business operators to regularise their immigration and business status. This follows a directive from President William Ruto targeting foreign nationals engaged in petty retail and hawking, with enforcement scheduled to begin in September 2026.

Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi clarified that the policy is not a blanket ban on foreign traders but a regulatory measure to ensure compliance with national laws and the East African Community Common Market Protocol. The government stated it remains open to both small- and large-scale trade, provided participants meet all licensing, registration, and work permit requirements.

The announcement caused significant concern among foreign communities, particularly Burundians in Nairobi, leading some to seek assistance from their embassies. In response to fears of harassment or xenophobic incidents, the Kenyan government has committed to an orderly regularisation process.

Nigerian High Commissioner to Kenya, Danlami Ibrahim, has issued an advisory to Nigerian citizens, stating that while the policy is not specifically targeting Nigerians, they should remain aware of the situation. Ibrahim noted that consultations with community leaders suggest there is no immediate cause for alarm among the Nigerian population in Kenya.