Kenya Warns Against Xenophobia as Foreign Nationals Face Harassment

Kenya has warned against the harassment of foreign nationals following new immigration and trade directives, saying those who engage in xenophobic behaviour will face prosecution.

Government Spokesperson Charles Owino said on Monday that security agencies and local authorities had been instructed to protect foreign nationals who are documented or undergoing registration. He said recent policy changes must not be used to intimidate or mistreat people from neighbouring countries.

“Any element seeking to exploit recent directives to fuel xenophobic sentiments or mistreat our neighbours will face the full force of the law,” Owino said.

His remarks followed reports of harassment targeting Burundian nationals, including footage circulating online showing incidents of intimidation and alleged theft. The situation comes after President William Ruto announced measures to restrict foreign nationals from engaging in certain small-scale trading activities under the proposed Local Content Bill 2025.

The measures have been followed by an increase in the number of foreign nationals seeking to leave Kenya. Bus stations, cyber cafés and embassies have reported large numbers of people, particularly from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, seeking travel documents or temporary passes.

The Burundian government has expressed concern over reports that its citizens have faced violence and the loss of property while conducting their businesses in Kenya. The Kenyan government has sought to reassure foreign nationals that they remain protected under the law. 

Owino acknowledged that many East African traders have lived and worked in Kenya without the required documentation, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. He said the absence of permits or business licences should not expose foreign nationals to arbitrary harassment or abuse. 

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei also visited the Burundian Embassy in Nairobi and assured officials that the government would strengthen security in areas with significant foreign populations. Sing’Oei said additional security would be provided in areas including Muthurwa, Kangemi and Bahati to prevent further incidents while the government educates Kenyans on the importance of regional cohesion.

“In the next few days, the Government of Kenya will provide security in the places where you largely live within Nairobi County… to prevent harassment as we educate Kenyans on the importance of regional cohesion,” he said.

The government has maintained that it has the authority to regulate trade and enforce immigration requirements while insisting that such measures should not result in discrimination or mistreatment of foreign nationals.