NAIROBI, Kenya, September 14, 2026 – Burundi has raised concern over what it describes as growing anti-Burundian rhetoric and harassment targeting its nationals living in Kenya, urging the Kenyan Government to ensure their safety.
Burundi’s Foreign Affairs Minister Édouard Bizimana warned that continued hate speech against Burundians could strain relations between the two neighbouring countries. He also called on Kenya to take responsibility for protecting Burundian nationals residing in the country.
The concerns come amid anxiety among foreign nationals following President William Ruto’s directive to address foreign participation in small businesses. The directive sparked fears among some Burundians and other East African nationals that they could be forced out of the country.
Hundreds of Burundians subsequently sought assistance and travel documents at their embassy in Nairobi, with some saying they feared harassment and violence. Kenya later announced a 90-day window for undocumented foreign nationals to regularise their immigration and business status.
Kenyan authorities have maintained that the exercise is aimed at ensuring compliance with immigration, work permit and business licensing requirements, rather than targeting foreigners based on their nationality.
The government has also reiterated that it has zero tolerance for xenophobia, harassment, intimidation and violence against foreign nationals. Foreign Affairs official Korir Sing’oei visited Burundians at their embassy and assured them that the regularisation process would also help authorities improve their protection and access to essential services.
Kenya hosts thousands of Burundian refugees and asylum seekers, many of whom are engaged in small-scale businesses, particularly in Nairobi. The situation has therefore raised concerns over the potential impact of the enforcement measures on the wider Kenyan-Burundian relationship.
