Mercy Masika speaks out on Ruto’s directive targeting foreign hawkers
By Valerian Khakayi, September 11, 2026Gospel singer and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Mercy Masika has called for compassion and respect for human dignity following President William Ruto’s directive on foreigners hawking on Nairobi’s streets.
Masika acknowledged the need to maintain orderly public spaces but urged authorities to ensure enforcement does not overlook the circumstances of refugees and other displaced people who rely on informal work to support their families.
“Following President William Ruto’s statement on preventing foreigners from hawking on Nairobi’s streets, I recognise the importance of maintaining safe, orderly and well-regulated public spaces,” Masika said.
“At the same time, I humbly appeal to all leaders and authorities to ensure that enforcement is carried out with compassion, fairness and respect for human dignity.”
Masika noted that some of those likely to be affected by the directive include refugees and displaced people who are working to provide for their families and rebuild their lives.
“Among those affected are refugees and other displaced people who are working—often under difficult circumstances—to provide for their families and rebuild their lives,” she said.
Call for humane solutions
The UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador said refugees should not only be viewed as beneficiaries of assistance, noting that many contribute to the communities where they live.
“Refugees are not merely recipients of assistance. They are neighbours, parents, entrepreneurs, workers and contributors to the communities that have welcomed them,” Masika said.
She added that many refugees depend on informal livelihoods because of challenges accessing formal employment.
“Many depend on informal livelihoods because they face significant barriers to formal employment,” she said.
Masika called for practical alternatives as authorities seek to enforce regulations governing street hawking.
“As we uphold the law, let us also pursue humane and practical solutions, including designated market spaces, lawful work opportunities, skills development and meaningful consultation with refugee communities,” she said.
She further proposed collaboration between different stakeholders to address the issue while protecting the rights and dignity of affected people.
“Collaboration among national and county governments, humanitarian organisations, civil society and refugee representatives can help protect both the dignity of individuals and the order of our cities,” Masika said.
Masika appeals for respect
Masika concluded by invoking Kenya’s history of welcoming people from different backgrounds, urging authorities to balance enforcement with humanity.
“Kenya’s long tradition of hospitality is a source of pride. May we continue to uphold it by ensuring that every person within our borders is treated with humanity, fairness and respect,” she said.