Burundi Embassy Offers Free Travel Documents as Kenyans Question Crackdown on Foreign Traders

There was drama and long queues along Denis Pritt Road in Kilimani on Monday, September 7, 2026, after the Burundian Embassy in Nairobi started issuing free travel documents to its citizens.

Thousands of Burundians turned up as early as morning after the embassy announced it would give out Laisser-Passer documents for free to those who want to go back home. The embassy said the exercise is a response to the ongoing crackdown on foreign nationals doing small businesses in Kenya.

It will be recalled that President William Ruto ordered a crackdown on foreigners operating small businesses like hawking and retail shops. The directive, which took effect on September 7, is meant to give priority to Kenyan citizens. This comes at a time when the Local Content Bill, 2025 is still under discussion.

In a notice dated September 5, the Embassy of Burundi said it was concerned about how its people are being treated. The statement signed by Ambassador Evelyne Habonimana accused Kenyan authorities of mistreating and harassing Burundians. The ambassador has now appealed to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who chairs the East African Community Heads of State Summit, to call for an emergency meeting to discuss Kenya's actions.

The Laisser-Passer being issued is valid for one year and allows Burundian nationals to move freely within EAC countries including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and South Sudan. For one to get the document, they must carry a passport photo taken on a white background, a copy of their national ID, a complete identity certificate and a valid residence certificate.

The embassy has announced that it will only serve people from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily and anyone who comes after that will be turned away. The embassy also said documents will not be given on the same day of application, but will be collected the following working day.

Under EAC free movement rules, Burundians are allowed to stay in Kenya for up to 180 days without a visa if they have valid papers. The current tension comes months after a regional meeting in April 2026 where Burundi urged its citizens to ensure they have proper travel documents when moving within East Africa.

At the same time, 100 Burundians from Kakuma refugee camp have been voluntarily returned home with help from UNHCR and the Kingdom of Sweden. The embassy is advising its citizens to go early and follow all requirements to avoid being locked out.