Burundi warns Kenya as tensions grow over treatment of Burundian workers

Burundi’s Foreign Affairs Minister Édouard Bizimana has warned Kenya that continued hate speech and alleged harassment targeting Burundians could strain relations between the two countries.

Bizimana made the remarks as Kenya began enforcing new restrictions on foreigners engaged in certain jobs and small businesses reserved for Kenyan citizens, following directives issued by President William Ruto.

In a post on X, Bizimana said Kenyans living in Burundi coexist peacefully with local residents but warned that the situation could change if Burundians continue to be targeted in Kenya.

“Kenyans live peacefully in Burundi. But if this hate speech targeting Burundi continues, things will inevitably change. The Kenyan government has a responsibility to protect the lives of Burundians living in that country,” he said.

The Kenyan directives began being enforced Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, requiring that some small-scale businesses be operated exclusively by Kenyan citizens.

The Kenyan government says the measure is intended to prevent foreigners from taking economic opportunities reserved for citizens.

The decision has raised concerns among foreigners from East African Community, or EAC, member states who live and work in Kenya, including Burundians.

Tensions over Burundian workers

Tensions increased after some Kenyan lawmakers criticized the presence of Burundian workers in the country.

One lawmaker said some construction companies prefer hiring Burundians because they are cheaper than Kenyan workers.

Unverified reports have also circulated on social media alleging that some Burundians living in Kenya have been harassed. Some people sharing the reports have called for intervention.

There are no official figures available on the number of Burundians who may have been affected, and Kenyan authorities have not specifically commented on the allegations.

The developments have sparked broader debate over how EAC member states treat citizens of other countries within the regional bloc.

Kenya explains restrictions

Kenya’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry has defended the government’s decision, saying the new enforcement measures are aimed at ensuring that foreigners comply with the conditions governing their stay and work in the country.

In a statement signed by Minister Lee Kinyanjui, the ministry recalled that Kenya removed visa requirements for visitors from around the world in January 2024.

However, it stressed that visa-free entry does not automatically grant a person the right to work or conduct business in Kenya.

The ministry said some visitors had abused the visa system and that enforcement efforts would focus on people violating the conditions of their permits.

It also said Kenya remains mindful of its agreements with other EAC member states, including those facilitating the movement of people and goods.