news 9 September 2026 Nile Post
Kenyan Directive on Foreign Traders Sparks Border Exodus, Concerns Rise in Uganda
A recent directive by Kenyan President William Ruto aimed at restricting foreign nationals without work permits from operating small businesses has led to a noticeable increase in foreign traders leaving Kenya, particularly through border points with Uganda. This situation has raised alarms among Ugandan officials and parliamentary committees regarding regional integration and the safety of Ugandan citizens in Kenya. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/369944/ruto-directive-triggers-exodus-of-foreign-traders-at-uganda-kenya-border
President William Ruto’s directive to curb foreign nationals from engaging in small-scale businesses without proper work permits is reportedly causing a significant outflow of traders at the Uganda-Kenya border. The measure, intended to prioritize Kenyan entrepreneurs, has prompted many foreign nationals, including those from Rwanda and South Sudan, to depart Kenya.
At the Busia One Stop Border Post, the impact is visible, with an increased number of individuals leaving the country. Some affected traders were seen stranded at the border, struggling to find transportation to their home countries.
The situation has drawn the attention of Uganda’s Parliamentary Committee on East African Affairs. Committee member Peter Okeyoh highlighted the scale of the exodus, stating that “Yesterday alone, 200 people exited Kenya through Lwakhakha border alone. This number is much higher at Busia.”
Furthermore, Ugandan legislators have expressed grave concern over a reported surge in the repatriation of bodies of Ugandan nationals from Kenya. Okeyoh claimed that approximately 86 Ugandan bodies have been returned within the past month, with some allegedly showing signs of violent injuries. “We fear that this pronouncement may make matters worse,” he added.
These developments have reignited discussions about Kenya’s adherence to East African Community principles, particularly concerning the free movement of people and goods. Former Busia Municipality MP, Geoffrey Macho, criticized the measures, stating, “The President of Kenya should know that East Africa belongs to every person. Such pronouncements are disorganizing the integration of East Africa.”
Ugandan lawmakers plan to address the issue in Parliament upon their return from recess, seeking an official explanation from the Kenyan government and advocating for intervention to protect their citizens and uphold regional integration commitments.
Source: Nile Post