Bien weighs in on situation facing Burundians and warns Kenyans
By Paulette Mboga, September 7, 2026Musician Bien has spoken out about the situation facing Burundians in Kenya amid a government crackdown on foreign traders.
Bien said the treatment of one African community should concern the rest of the continent, calling for Africa to remain a home for Africans.
The multi-talented singer argued that Kenyans abroad could find themselves in similar situations if the trend continues.
“Today it’s a Burundian in Kenya; tomorrow it’s a Kenyan somewhere else. An attack on one community is a threat to the dignity of us all. Let Africa be home for Africans,” Bien said on Monday, September 7, 2026.
His remarks came after hundreds of Burundians in Kenya sought travel documents as uncertainty grew over the crackdown on unlicensed small businesses run by migrants. President William Ruto had ordered an operation targeting foreigners operating small-scale businesses in the country.
The situation has seen large numbers of Burundians seek assistance with their immigration documents. Long queues were reported outside the Burundi Embassy in Nairobi on Monday, September 7, 2026, as citizens sought help with travel documentation.
Burundians seek assistance in Nairobi
The embassy had announced that it would provide free emergency travel documents to citizens who wanted to return to Burundi. Some people were also reported to be rushing to buy bus tickets as they considered travelling back home.
The crowds gathered at the embassy along Dennis Pritt Road as Burundians living in Kenya sought assistance with their documents. The situation came amid uncertainty over the government’s action against foreign traders operating small businesses.
Police officers were deployed outside the diplomatic mission as large crowds gathered. The heavy police presence added to the security attention around the embassy as hundreds of people sought assistance.
Videos showed mostly young men forming long queues outside the embassy while seeking travel documents. Some of those who gathered were also seen carrying luggage and personal belongings as they prepared for possible travel back home.
The government crackdown follows concerns raised by the Trade Ministry over foreigners operating small-scale businesses without the required permits. The ministry said some migrants had exploited visa rules to work without the permits needed for such businesses.
Ruto’s directive required foreigners operating small-scale businesses to cease work. The directive has left affected migrant traders uncertain about their businesses and their stay in the country.