Tens of police officers deployed at Burundi Embassy as hundreds seek to regularise documents
By Valerian Khakayi, September 7, 2026Heavy police presence has been seen outside the Embassy of Burundi in Nairobi after hundreds of Burundian nationals turned up seeking to regularise their immigration documents.
The embassy, located along Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi, attracted large crowds on Monday, September 7, 2026, as Burundians living in Kenya sought assistance with documentation amid growing uncertainty over the government’s crackdown on foreign traders.
Police officers were deployed outside the diplomatic mission as crowds gathered, with the situation attracting heightened security attention.
Hundreds of Burundians living in Kenya flocked to the embassy, seeking documentation, with some carrying luggage and personal belongings as they prepare for possible travel back home.
Videos seen by K24 Digital showed crowds, mostly young men, forming long queues outside the embassy as they sought travel documents to return to Burundi.
Ruto’s orders
The development comes days after President William Ruto ordered authorities to close down small-scale businesses operated by foreign traders, with the directive taking effect on Monday.
However, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei on Sunday said that the President’s statement had been taken out of context.
According to Sing’oei, Kenya remains open to small- and large-scale trade by foreign nationalities, as long as they are well documented and have the necessary approvals.
“We assure that small or large traders & employees of all nationalities, with requisite documentation, work permits & licences, are legally protected to operate in Kenya,” said Sing’oei.
“Burundian nationals and all East Africans and Africans for that matter are free to live in Kenya as long as they conduct their businesses or work according to the requirements of our law.”
Some of the Burundians at the embassy said they were seeking documentation amid fears over the implications of the government’s directive.
According to the United Nations Refugee Agency, about 16,000 Burundian refugees and asylum seekers live in Kenya, with many engaged in small-scale businesses in Nairobi.
The situation at the Burundi Embassy comes as the government moves to enforce its directive on foreign traders, while Burundian nationals in Kenya seek clarity and documentation amid the changing environment.