Kenya: LSK Calls for Review of Foreign Trader Directive, Warns Against Nationality-Based Attacks

Kenya sets out rules for foreign small-scale traders

Kenya has clarified its position on foreign nationals engaged in small-scale trade, saying recent measures are aimed at regulating their participation and enforcing immigration, work-permit, registration and licensing requirements, rather than imposing a blanket ban on foreigners operating small businesses.

Kenya: LSK Calls for Review of Foreign Trader Directive, Warns Against Nationality-Based Attacks

Nairobi -- The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called on the government to review its directive affecting foreign nationals engaged in small-scale trade, warning that enforcement must comply with the Constitution and Kenya's obligations under the East African Community (EAC).

MPs, Wetang’ula defend Ruto’s call for foreign traders to regularise operations

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended President William Ruto’s call for foreign nationals living and doing business in Kenya to regularise their status saying the directive is intended to enforce existing laws and protect opportunities for local entrepreneurs. According to Wetang’ula, Kenya remains open to investors and other foreign nationals but insisted that those [...]

Wetang’ula defends Ruto’s call for foreign traders to regularise operations

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended President William Ruto’s call for foreign nationals living and doing business in Kenya to regularise their status saying the directive is intended to enforce existing laws and protect opportunities for local entrepreneurs. According to Speaker Wetang’ula, Kenya remains open to investors and other foreign nationals but insisted that […]

10 Clarifications Government Has Made On Foreign Nationals Trading In Kenya

The Kenya Times ~ Trending, Breaking News and Videos 10 Clarifications Government Has Made on Foreign Nationals Trading in Kenya On September 2, 2026, President William Ruto issued directives on small-scale traders and informal retailers, raising questions over whether foreign nationals would be barred from operating businesses in Kenya. Speaking to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) traders at State House in Nairobi, Ruto said a Bill wa…

Kenya Clarifies Position On Foreign Traders Amid Small-Scale Trade Debate

The Kenyan government has clarified that it is not imposing a blanket ban on foreign traders engaging in small-scale trade, saying foreigners remain free to live, work and do business in the country provided they comply with existing laws. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the government’s approach is focused on regulatory compliance rather than […]