Former MP Kabando wa Kabando criticizes President Ruto's directive on foreign traders, warns against xenophobia

Kabando argued that many Kenyans work and run businesses across East Africa and other parts of the world, citing Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the United States as examples. He warned against measures that could fuel hostility towards neighboring communities and accused the President of promoting xenophobic sentiments. President Ruto had ordered a crackdown on foreign nationals operating small businesses, with enforcement expected to begin on Monday, September 7.

Ruto stated that some small-scale trading opportunities should be reserved for Kenyan citizens and called for legislation to formally identify businesses foreigners would not be allowed to operate. While Ruto maintains Kenya is open to foreign investment, he believes foreigners should focus on investments that bring capital and create jobs, rather than competing in low-capital businesses. Kabando urged Kenyans to reject what he described as an attempt to incite hostility against citizens of neighboring East African countries.