Approximately 7 000 Burundian nationals have returned home following a targeted enforcement operation against foreign nationals operating small-scale informal businesses in Kenya, which began earlier this month.

Reporting from Bujumbura, Correspondent Balen Havyarimana details that local authorities and humanitarian agencies are co-ordinating reception and reintegration efforts for the arriving returnees. The mass return follows tightened regulatory inspections by Kenyan authorities targeting non-citizens operating small businesses without valid work permits or business licenses.

Burundian officials confirmed that returning traders are receiving transitional support, while cross-border trade associations call for diplomatic discussions between Nairobi and Bujumbura to resolve legal licensing requirements and protect informal regional commerce.

–ChannelAfrica–