President William Ruto’s remarks on foreigners operating small businesses in Kenya have been clarified by Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei, who said the President was responding to an ongoing debate on the proposed Local Content Bill.
Sing’oei said reports suggesting that Kenya was moving to bar foreigners from doing business in the country had taken Ruto’s remarks out of context.
“Le Monde got it wrong. President’s statement has been taken out of context,” Korir said in a statement posted on X.
He said Ruto was referring to the Local Content Bill currently before Parliament, which seeks to increase Kenyan participation in economic activities and protect local businesses.
The PS stressed that foreign traders and workers who meet Kenyan legal requirements remain protected.
“As such, we assure that small or large traders and employees of all nationalities, with requisite documentation, work permits and licenses, are legally protected to operate in Kenya,” he said.
Korir also sought to reassure East African nationals, including Burundians, following concerns that the President’s remarks could affect foreigners living and working in Kenya.
“Burundian nationals and all East Africans, and Africans for that matter, are free to live in Kenya as long as they conduct their businesses or work according to the requirements of our law,” he said.
Ruto had on Wednesday directed authorities to begin enforcement against foreigners operating businesses he said should be reserved for Kenyans.
“All those traders and hawkers doing these small businesses should close down,” Ruto said while addressing traders at State House in Nairobi.
The President linked the directive to the Local Content Bill, 2025, which is currently before Parliament.
The Bill seeks to increase local participation in businesses and requires foreign companies to source a significant share of their goods, services and supplies locally where they meet the required standards.
Parliament has said the proposed law is intended to ensure foreign investment creates jobs and opportunities for Kenyans.
Ruto’s remarks raised concern among foreign nationals and triggered reports suggesting a broader crackdown on foreigners operating businesses in Kenya.
Korir’s clarification makes clear that the government’s position is not a blanket ban on foreign traders, but enforcement of existing laws and proposed restrictions on businesses that may be reserved for Kenyan citizens.
The final position will also depend on the outcome of the Local Content Bill currently being considered by Parliament.
