Kenya has begun enforcing a crackdown on undocumented foreign hawkers and small-scale traders following a directive by President William Ruto, with the government urging affected East African Community (EAC) nationals to regularise their stay and work status.
The directive, announced on September 2, took effect on September 7 and has caused anxiety among foreign traders, particularly nationals from neighbouring countries who have lived and operated businesses in Kenya for years.
However, the Kenyan government has clarified that the measures are not intended to prevent EAC citizens from living and working in the country. Instead, undocumented foreigners are being encouraged to obtain the necessary immigration documents.
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino said EAC nationals can apply for a Class R permit through the eCitizen platform. He said both the processing and issuance fees for the permit have been waived.
“Every foreigner is required to regularise their stay under the new law,” Owino said, adding that applicants would only be required to pay an annual alien registration fee of about KSh5,000 for a foreign national identification document.
The Class R permit is available to citizens of EAC member states, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia. Applicants must intend to reside, work, trade or practise a profession in Kenya.
The application process begins online through the eFNS portal on eCitizen. Applicants select permit issuance, choose Class R, complete Form 25 and upload the required documents.
These include a completed and signed Form 25, a valid EAC passport bio-data page, two recent passport-sized colour photographs and a cover letter addressed to the Director General of Immigration Services. Applicants already in Kenya may also be required to provide proof of legal entry or their current immigration status.
Depending on their circumstances, applicants may need additional documents such as business registration certificates, employment contracts, academic qualifications or professional licences.
After completing the online application, applicants must print the forms and supporting documents and submit them physically to the Directorate of Immigration Services at Nyayo House in Nairobi. Once approved, the permit is endorsed in the applicant’s passport.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has also assured EAC nationals of their safety and humane treatment during the regularisation exercise. He apologised to Burundians and other foreigners who reportedly faced harassment following the government’s announcement.
The government has pledged to strengthen security in areas with large immigrant populations as the process continues.
Courtesy of Kuto
Picture: Kenyan hawkers