Foreign workers in Comoros are facing uncertainty after a new law restricted foreign nationals from working in certain occupations and business activities.
The law, introduced in July, has affected migrants who rely on small businesses to earn a living and support relatives in their home countries.
Africanews reported that some foreign residents are now concerned about their ability to continue working in the island nation.
Foreign workers in Comoros fear loss of income
Larissa Razafitianna, a Madagascar national living in Comoros, sells shoes near the country’s largest market.
She told Africanews that she sends between €50 and €100 to her family in Madagascar each month.
However, the new restrictions have left her worried about her income.
“I’m really scared… because I came here looking to make money,” she said.
Razafitianna said her application for a business visa had been refused, raising questions about how she could continue earning money.
Supporters defend new Comoros jobs law
Critics cited by Africanews say the law could discriminate against foreign nationals and leave vulnerable communities in a more precarious position.
Supporters, however, argue that the restrictions are intended to protect economic opportunities for citizens.
Hamidou Mhoma, vice-president of New OPACO, described the measure as a matter of “social justice.”
He said foreigners remained welcome in salaried employment but argued that foreign entrepreneurs should invest in areas where Comoros lacks skills or capital.
Similar measures introduced elsewhere
Comoros is not the only country in the region to consider restrictions on foreign participation in parts of the economy.
Last year, Tanzania barred foreigners from owning and operating certain businesses across more than a dozen sectors, according to Africanews.
Similar proposals have also been discussed in Kenya.
The debate in Comoros highlights the challenge of balancing employment opportunities for citizens with the livelihoods of foreign residents who have established businesses in the country.