Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered a crackdown on foreigners operating small-scale businesses in the country, saying local traders and hawkers must be protected from unfair competition.
Ruto directed authorities to begin shutting down foreign-owned small businesses from Monday, September 7, particularly hawking and small-scale retail activities.
Speaking at State House in Nairobi, the President said Kenya remained open to foreign investment but argued that foreign investors should focus on creating jobs, expanding production and contributing to economic growth rather than competing with Kenyans in low-capital businesses.
He specifically questioned the involvement of foreigners, including Chinese nationals, in hawking and operating small shops.
Ruto also directed officials to accelerate the proposed Local Content Bill, 2025, which seeks to reserve certain economic activities for Kenyan citizens and increase local participation in businesses.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over competition between Kenyan traders and foreign nationals operating in the country’s informal economy.
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