Ruto Issues Fresh Directives to Foreign Traders, Gives Them 90 Days to Comply

President William Ruto has directed the Government to establish a clear framework to regulate the participation of foreign nationals in Kenya’s small-scale trade and informal businesses.

The directive comes amid concerns from Kenyan traders over the growing involvement of foreign nationals in small-scale businesses and its impact on livelihoods.

The State House Spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed, said the President issued the directive following an engagement with Kenyan traders last week.

Ruto Orders Review of Small-Scale Trade Rules

According to the statement, Ruto has directed that the Local Content Bill, 2025, currently before Parliament, be expanded to create a predictable framework for participation in small-scale trade and enterprise.

The framework will identify economic activities that may be reserved for Kenyan citizens while protecting foreign nationals who are legally entitled to work, invest and conduct business in the country.

The President reaffirmed the Government’s responsibility to protect and expand economic opportunities for Kenyans, particularly in the micro and small-enterprise sector.

At the same time, he stressed that the rights and legitimate interests of foreign nationals who are lawfully resident, employed or conducting business in Kenya must be protected.

Foreign Traders Given 90 Days to Regularise

The Government has given every person conducting business in Kenya 90 days to comply with immigration, work permit, registration and licensing requirements.

During this period, relevant Government agencies will conduct an orderly regularisation exercise.

The agencies will work with the affected individuals and their respective embassies to provide guidance and allow those who do not meet the requirements to regularise their immigration status and business operations.

The Government said the process will be conducted fairly, consistently and without discrimination.

At the end of the 90-day period, immigration, work permit, registration and licensing requirements will be enforced strictly in accordance with the law.

Also Read:Kenya Re Announces New Job Opportunities in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda

Government Warns Against Harassment

The Government also warned individuals and groups against taking the law into their own hands by targeting foreign traders.

“The Government emphasises that the interpretation, implementation and enforcement of the law are the exclusive responsibility of duly authorised State agencies,” the statement read

He added that no individual or group has the authority to “harass, intimidate, threaten or interfere with foreign nationals or their businesses.”

Anyone found engaging in such conduct will face action in accordance with the law.

Also Read:Ruto’s Govt Slapped With 9 Demands Over Alleged Crackdown on Burundian Traders

Kenya Maintains Commitment to Regional Trade

The Government said the new measures will not affect Kenya’s commitment to regional integration and international obligations.

Kenya will continue to facilitate the movement of people, labour, services and capital within applicable legal and regulatory frameworks.

The Government also maintained its commitment to the East African Community, the African Continental Free Trade Area and broader African cooperation.

“Legitimate concerns about economic opportunity can never justify discrimination, excuse lawlessness or sanction violence,” president said.

He added that Kenya would remain an open and welcoming country while protecting opportunities for its citizens and safeguarding the rights of people lawfully within its borders.

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Photo of Burundians captured awaiting to board buses back to their country at the bus station in Nairobi on September 7,2026
PHOTO/Screen grab