Burundians Flee Kenya Amid Violence Fears After Ruto's Order

Following President William Ruto's directive for foreign-owned small businesses in Kenya to close, hundreds of Burundians queued at their embassy in Nairobi to obtain travel documents. This order has raised concerns among foreign traders, particularly Burundians who rely on street vending for their livelihood.

Many are now preparing to return home due to fears of violence, with reports of attacks and robberies against Burundians. Pastor Jean-Baptiste Ndayizeye highlighted the dangers, comparing the situation to xenophobic violence in South Africa.

Eric Bizimana, a Burundian who moved to Kenya in 2022, expressed his reluctance to leave but felt compelled due to the circumstances. Burundi's Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana condemned the violence against Burundians, while Kenya's junior Foreign Minister Korir Sing’Oei visited the embassy to apologize and assure the community of police protection in areas where violence was reported.

Government spokesperson Charles Owino announced that authorities had opened a channel for Burundians to present their paperwork at the embassy.