The Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K) has raised concerns over the enforcement of the government directive targeting small-scale retail and hawking businesses operated by foreign nationals, warning that the measures could fuel harassment, xenophobia and tensions within the region.
In a statement, the group said enforcement actions that began on September 7, 2026, had reportedly resulted in intimidation, profiling, extortion and harassment of some foreign nationals, particularly traders from East African Community countries, including Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
PRWG-K said arbitrary arrests, confiscation of property and excessive use of force by law enforcement officers would violate constitutional standards and called for all enforcement agencies to observe due process.
The group also expressed concern that the crackdown could undermine Kenya’s obligations under the East African Community Common Market Protocol, which provides for the movement of people, workers, goods and services, as well as the rights of establishment and residence for citizens of partner states.
PRWG-K further warned against rhetoric that could encourage hostility towards foreign traders, urging Kenyans to avoid vigilantism, xenophobic attacks, destruction of property and other forms of harassment.
The organisation is calling on the government to suspend what it describes as non-statutory enforcement measures and instead pursue a structured policy dialogue involving relevant government ministries and trade associations.
It is also calling for any changes to small-scale trade regulations to go through public participation, research-backed impact assessments and the appropriate legislative processes.
PRWG-K says it will work with human rights organisations to document and report alleged cases of abuse, extortion or torture arising from the enforcement operations.
The group has urged the government and the public to protect peaceful coexistence while addressing concerns over competition in the small-scale business sector through lawful and institutional channels.
