Mudavadi defends Ruto's order on foreign traders - September 2026

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has defended President William Ruto's directive concerning foreign nationals operating informal businesses, clarifying that Kenya isn't implementing a blanket ban on foreigners doing business. The directive, part of a renewed crackdown on ensuring compliance with immigration laws, has prompted the government to grant a three-month extension for documentation regularization. However, rights groups are voicing alarm over increasing xenophobia amid the crackdown, deeming the 90-day deadline insufficient. The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has strongly condemned hostility directed towards foreigners, while the Public Service Commission has criticized statements made by President Ruto regarding foreigners and urged Kenyans to refrain from intimidating them. The Kenyan government has also initiated talks with Burundi to address a dispute concerning Burundian traders operating in Kenya. A Kenyan artist in Nakuru has painted a large anti-xenophobia mural advocating for unity among African communities.