The Nairobi County Market Traders’ Welfare has called for calm and unity in markets following the recent presidential directive on foreign traders, urging members not to harass or confront refugees, asylum seekers and lawful migrants.
In a statement dated September 7, 2026, Chairperson of the Nairobi County Market Traders’ Welfare Moses Wenani said the directive had created concern and confusion among traders, particularly over how fellow traders who are refugees, asylum seekers or lawful migrants should be treated.
The body, however, urged traders to continue with their businesses normally, stressing that the directive did not change who belongs in Nairobi’s markets.
“Do not panic, and continue doing business as you always have,” the statement said.
It urged traders to avoid harassment, confrontation or taking matters into their own hands against fellow traders based on their nationality or where they come from.
The umbrella body said refugees, asylum seekers and lawful migrants who are currently trading in Nairobi markets should continue to be treated as fellow market traders.
It noted that it has been reviewing its constitution in recent months to establish a more inclusive governance structure that gives refugee traders a formal voice alongside youth, persons with disabilities and other underrepresented groups.
The body said the process has been supported by the International Rescue Committee, Nairobi City County Government and Kituo Cha Sheria, which it said have helped strengthen its leadership's capacity to promote inclusive and fair markets.
According to the traders' body, the inclusion of refugee traders is consistent with existing national and county government policies.
It cited the national Shirika Plan, which seeks to integrate refugees into Kenya’s economic and social systems, including through greater access to work and livelihoods.
It also pointed to the Nairobi City County Refugee Integration and Community Building Strategy (NCRIS), which commits the county to improving refugees’ access to services, documentation and economic opportunities.
The umbrella body has specifically asked market chairpersons to reassure their members and discourage rumours or actions that could trigger conflict between traders.
It urged traders with questions or concerns to refer them to the umbrella body's leadership rather than taking action at the market level.
“Any trader, Kenyan, refugee, asylum seeker, or migrant, who experiences harassment or intimidation should report it to their market chairperson or directly to the Umbrella Body,” the statement said.
