President William Ruto’s remarks about foreigners operating small businesses in Kenya sparked a heated debate, with some interpreting them as a blanket attack on foreign traders.
But the issue is more complicated than the headlines suggest.
Ruto was responding to concerns from Kenyan traders who feel they are increasingly competing with foreign nationals in small-scale businesses such as hawking and retail. His argument was that Kenya welcomes foreign investors, but there should be a clear difference between investing in the country and competing with ordinary Kenyans in small businesses.
That distinction matters.
Kenya needs foreign investment. Foreign companies bring capital, technology, skills and jobs. At the same time, the government has a responsibility to protect millions of Kenyans who depend on small businesses to survive.
The President’s comments, however, were quickly interpreted by some as meaning that foreigners were no longer welcome to do business in Kenya.
That is where context was lost.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei later clarified that the President’s remarks had been taken out of context. He said foreign nationals who are properly documented and have the necessary permits and licences remain protected by Kenyan law.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui has also clarified an important point: visa-free entry into Kenya does not automatically give someone the right to work or operate a business.
This is not unique to Kenya. Entering a country legally and having permission to work or run a business are two different things.
The government therefore has every right to enforce immigration, licensing and business regulations. But enforcement must be based on the law, not nationality.
That distinction is important because Kenya has strong economic and social ties with the rest of East Africa. Many foreigners legally work, invest and operate businesses in the country, just as Kenyans do elsewhere in the region.
The danger is allowing a legitimate conversation about protecting Kenyan traders to turn into hostility towards foreigners.
The government should therefore be clear about exactly which businesses are being targeted, what permits are required and how the rules will be enforced.
Kenyan traders deserve protection from unfair competition. Legitimate foreign investors and workers also deserve protection under the law.
These positions do not contradict each other.
Perhaps what Ruto was trying to say was simple: Kenya should remain open to investment, while making sure its own citizens are not pushed out of the small businesses that sustain their families.
