ITUC-Africa Critiques Kenya's Stance on Foreign Traders

ITUC-Africa, through its General Secretary Joel Odigie, raised concerns regarding remarks made by Kenyan President William Ruto on September 2, 2023, about foreign nationals engaged in small-scale trade in Kenya. President Ruto directed actions against foreigners involved in hawking and certain small businesses, suggesting these activities should be reserved for Kenyans.

This led to significant anxiety among migrant communities, with reports indicating that hundreds of Burundians sought travel documents to return home, and some foreign nationals faced threats and hostility. Odigie noted that while Kenya has the right to regulate employment and immigration, economic hardships should not be blamed on nationality.

He emphasized that migrant workers and African traders should not be scapegoated for structural issues like unemployment and inequality. Odigie also highlighted the implications of Ruto's statements on Africa's continental integration agenda, asserting that the future of Africa should not favor the free movement of goods and capital over that of its workers and families.