The African Union Commission has dismissed Ambassador Fred Gateretse Ngoga, a senior Burundian diplomat who had served at the AU for 17 years, after he raised concerns on social media about Kenya’s treatment of Burundian traders.

Ngoga posted on X questioning why Burundian nationals were being singled out while other foreign traders continued operating, prompting the AU to take disciplinary action.

Kenya’s 90‑day grace period for undocumented foreign traders

The Kenyan government has introduced a 90‑day grace period during which undocumented foreign traders must regularise their immigration status, obtain work permits, register their businesses and secure the necessary licences before enforcement resumes.

Hundreds of Burundian nationals have sought assistance at the Burundi Embassy in Nairobi to obtain identification and travel documents amid the crackdown.

Humanitarian groups, including St John Ambulance and the Kenya Red Cross, have been providing food supplies to Burundian families staying at the embassy while they pursue regularisation.

Steps for traders and embassies during the grace period

The Kenyan government has apologised for hardships experienced by Burundian traders and reiterated that there is no blanket ban; undocumented East African traders are urged to contact their respective embassies to begin the 90‑day regularisation process.

Traders should gather required work permits, business registrations and licences before the grace period ends, while embassies continue to assist nationals in obtaining the necessary documentation.