Kenya has announced a temporary amnesty for undocumented East African migrants. The move gives affected foreigners time to register with their embassies.
During the registration period, migrants taking part will be treated as legally present in Kenya.
The government has also told security agencies and local authorities to protect foreign nationals from arbitrary harassment or discrimination.
The decision follows growing concern among foreign communities after President William Ruto announced tighter restrictions on foreign-owned small businesses.
Kenya migrant amnesty offers temporary protection
The Kenya migrant amnesty provides temporary protection while undocumented migrants register.
According to the government, anyone going through the registration process will be presumed legally present in Kenya during the designated period.
As a result, migrants have more time to deal with their documents without immediately fearing action over their immigration status.
However, the measure is temporary. The source does not say that it gives migrants permanent legal status.
Foreign business restrictions spark concern
The amnesty comes after Ruto announced new restrictions on foreign-owned small businesses.
Last week, the president gave affected businesses until Monday to close. He argued that some parts of the economy should provide more opportunities for Kenyans.
The announcement caused concern among foreign communities.
In particular, many Burundians earn a living through street vending in Nairobi. Some began preparing to leave Kenya after Ruto’s announcement.
Burundians gather at embassy in Nairobi
Large crowds gathered outside the Burundian embassy in Nairobi.
People waited for hours while carrying documents, suitcases and bags. Many were seeking paperwork as they prepared to return home.
The temporary amnesty has now reduced some of the immediate pressure.
Still, uncertainty remains over the future of foreign-owned small businesses in Kenya.
Kenya tightens rules for foreign traders
Kenya has recently increased its focus on foreign participation in parts of the informal economy.
For many East African migrants, street trading and small businesses provide an important source of income.
Therefore, the issue goes beyond immigration status. It also affects jobs and livelihoods.
The Kenya migrant amnesty addresses the immediate registration issue. However, the longer-term future of affected foreign traders remains unclear.