Kenya Grants Amnesty to Undocumented East African Migrants

The Kenyan government, led by President William Ruto, has declared a temporary amnesty for undocumented East African migrants, particularly targeting Burundians, after chaotic scenes unfolded outside the Burundian embassy in Nairobi. This unrest followed the Ministry of Trade's directive to close foreign-owned small businesses without valid work permits, with enforcement set to begin on September 14.

The announcement caused alarm among migrant communities, leading to hundreds of Burundians gathering at their embassy to seek travel documents. The United Nations reports approximately 16,000 Burundian migrants and refugees reside in Kenya, many operating small street businesses.

In response to the situation, a government spokesman urged undocumented nationals to register at their embassies, assuring that those who do so would be considered legally present in Kenya. The government also warned against any xenophobic actions and pledged to protect foreign nationals.

Korir Sing'Oei, Kenya's junior foreign minister, visited the embassy to apologize and offer assistance to Burundians wishing to obtain documentation or return home.