NAIROBI, Kenya — Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei has visited the Burundian Embassy in Nairobi to reassure thousands of Burundian nationals seeking travel documents following recent remarks by President William Ruto on undocumented foreign nationals.
Sing’Oei visited the embassy along Dennis Pritt Road in Kilimani on Monday, September 7, 2026, amid concerns that Ruto’s remarks had caused anxiety among Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya.
Sing’Oei said the President’s remarks had been taken out of context and assured Burundian nationals that the government remained committed to peaceful coexistence between Kenyans and citizens of other East African Community (EAC) member states.
Government reassures Burundians
Addressing those gathered at the embassy, Sing’Oei acknowledged concerns among Burundian nationals following the recent statements and said the government was aware that some had faced harassment in their neighbourhoods.
“For many years, you have stayed with Kenyans like brothers and sisters. But recently, it was stated that those who do not have official documents will be evicted from Kenya, but many people did not understand what it meant,” Sing’Oei said.
He said the government’s responsibility was to protect both Kenyans and EAC citizens living in the country and ensure that tensions did not lead to violence or intimidation.
“I know most of you, after this declaration, have seen yourselves being injured by those close to you in your neighbourhoods. The main role of the Kenyan government is to make sure that all Kenyans and East African Community citizens living in Kenya live in peace and coexist as brothers,” he said.
Documentation process underway
Sing’Oei said the government was working to ensure that Burundian nationals living in Kenya obtained the documentation required to regularise their stay.
He said authorities also needed accurate information on the whereabouts of foreign nationals for security and administrative purposes.
“Our main role as government is to make sure you have the right documents necessary for staying here in Kenya, and we know about your whereabouts so that even when it comes to security, we can keep good watch over you,” the PS said.
The government is exploring mechanisms to register Burundian nationals and establish which individuals have the necessary documents to remain in Kenya legally.
The process is expected to help distinguish between undocumented residents who need assistance regularising their status and individuals who may be in the country unlawfully.
Security to be increased in Bahati and Muthurwa
Sing’Oei also urged Burundian nationals to remain patient as the government works to address their concerns.
He said security would be increased in areas with significant Burundian populations, including Bahati and Muthurwa, to protect residents from harassment.
“In the next few days that are forthcoming, I plead with you to be patient. The government is going to increase security in areas where you stay, like Bahati, Muthurwa and other places, so that you cannot be harassed by other people,” he said.
The assurance comes amid reports of anxiety among some foreign nationals following the government’s renewed focus on documentation and regulation of foreign traders.
Ruto remarks trigger anxiety
The embassy visit follows recent remarks by President Ruto that have generated public debate over undocumented foreign nationals and their participation in Kenya’s informal economy.
Some Burundian nationals reportedly interpreted the comments as a threat of mass eviction, prompting large numbers to seek documentation from their embassy.
The government has since sought to clarify that its position is focused on documentation and lawful residence rather than targeting citizens of a particular country.
Sing’Oei’s visit appeared aimed at calming fears among Burundian nationals while encouraging them to participate in the documentation process.
