{VIDEO}Thousands of Burundians Queue at Their Nairobi Embassy for Free Travel Documents
1 min read
Thousands of Burundian nationals gathered outside the Burundian Embassy along Denis Pritt Road in Kilimani, Nairobi, on Monday, September 7, 2026, to apply for free travel documents.
The embassy started issuing the documents to Burundians who want to return home amid growing concerns over the ongoing crackdown on foreign nationals operating small businesses in Kenya.
Long queues were seen outside the embassy as many people turned up to apply for the travel documents.
Burundi raises concerns over treatment of its citizens
Burundi’s Ambassador to Kenya, Evelyne Habonimana, has raised concerns over how some Burundian nationals are being treated during the ongoing enforcement operation.
The ambassador called on Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who chairs the East African Community Heads of State Summit, to consider an emergency meeting over the situation.
The concerns come after President William Ruto directed authorities to step up enforcement against foreigners operating businesses illegally in Kenya.
Burundian nationals are among the foreign communities affected by the operation.
Watch the Video Below>>>
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Thousands of Burundians lined up at their Nairobi embassy to get free Laisser-Passer documents amid a crackdown on foreign-owned small businesses in Kenya. pic.twitter.com/A1IjSmoyTa
— KnTimes (@kn_times) September 7, 2026
How Burundians can get the travel document
The Burundian Embassy said eligible nationals can apply for a Laisser-Passer document free of charge.
Applicants are required to provide:
- A passport-size photo with a white background
- A copy of their national identity card
- A completed identity certificate
- A valid residence certificate
The embassy said applications are handled at its Kilimani offices between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Applicants arriving after 2:00 p.m. may not be served that day.
The embassy also stated that applicants should not expect to collect the document on the same day. Those whose documents are ready can collect them on the following working day.
Can Burundians travel to Kenya without a visa?
Burundian citizens are generally allowed to enter Kenya without applying for a visa in advance under the East African Community’s regional movement arrangements, subject to the applicable immigration requirements.
The recent crackdown on foreign-owned businesses has, however, caused concern among some Burundians living and working in Kenya.
The embassy has encouraged those seeking the Laisser-Passer to visit its offices early and follow the required application procedures.
Why Kenya is cracking down on foreign businesses
The current enforcement comes as the Kenyan government moves to give more opportunities to local citizens in sectors such as retail and hawking.
President Ruto has directed authorities to take action against foreigners operating businesses in areas reserved for Kenyans or those operating without the required legal documents.
The issue has attracted attention among foreign communities living and doing business in Kenya, including Burundian nationals.
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