NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenyan government has moved to address a widely circulated video showing a Chinese national assaulting a Kenyan worker at a private company in Nairobi, saying appropriate legal and administrative action is underway.
In a statement released Monday, the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said authorities were already handling the matter, which has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed debate on the conduct of foreign nationals living and working in Kenya.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi has previously urged both Kenyans abroad and expatriates in the country to respect the laws and cultural norms of their host nations. The latest incident, officials noted, reinforces that message.
“When in another country, abide by their laws, respect their people, and understand their culture,” Mudavadi has repeatedly said during international engagements.
The statement added that Kenya expects all foreigners within its borders to uphold the same standards.
Chinese Embassy releases strong response
In a diplomatic gesture, the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi issued a public statement expressing “extreme disappointment” over the assault.
The Embassy confirmed that the company involved had immediately terminated the Chinese worker’s contract and was considering further disciplinary measures.
“The Embassy consistently requires Chinese citizens in Kenya to strictly abide by local laws, regulations, and cultural customs,” the statement read, stressing that the vast majority comply.
It urged that the “isolated incident” should not affect ongoing investment and cooperation between Chinese and Kenyan companies but should serve as a reminder on mutual respect.
Kenya says incident will not derail cooperation but respect is non-negotiable
The Government reaffirmed that Kenya remains open to foreign investors, skilled professionals and global partners, but insisted that all expatriates must operate within the law and respect local culture.
Officials pointed to the deportation of offending expatriates, corporate action from employers, and diplomatic coordination as proof of its commitment to safeguarding Kenyan workers and ensuring a safe environment for all.
