President William Ruto has issued a strong notice to foreign hawkers operating in Kenya, saying they must leave the country as the government moves to protect opportunities for Kenyan traders.
In a statement, President Ruto said he was surprised to learn that a large percentage of hawkers moving and selling goods across the country are foreigners. Watch The Video Here
According to the President, the situation has denied many Kenyan hawkers an opportunity to do business and earn a living in their own country.
Ruto said his administration will not allow foreigners to take over opportunities that should benefit Kenyans while many local traders continue to struggle to make ends meet.
The President further stated that foreigners coming into Kenya should focus on investing in the country rather than engaging in small-scale hawking businesses that can be done by local citizens.
He maintained that his government is committed to creating more opportunities for Kenyans and ensuring that local traders are not pushed out of the market.
The remarks have sparked reactions among Kenyans, with some supporting the move to protect local traders while others are calling for the government to ensure that any action taken follows the law and respects the rights of foreign nationals.