President William Ruto has directed authorities to remove foreign hawkers operating in Kenya without the required documentation, as he addressed MSME traders at State House, Nairobi.

Ruto said foreigners engaged in hawking and other small-scale trading activities must have the necessary authorisation to operate in the country, directing that those found without the required documents should be removed.

The President's directive comes amid growing concerns among local traders over competition from foreign nationals operating in Kenya's informal and small-scale business sector.

Ruto emphasised the need to protect opportunities for Kenyan traders while ensuring that foreigners operating businesses in the country comply with existing immigration and business regulations.

His remarks were made during a meeting with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) traders at State House, where he discussed issues affecting the sector, including access to markets and opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

The directive is expected to place renewed focus on enforcement agencies responsible for immigration and business compliance, particularly in areas where foreign nationals are engaged in informal trading.

The President's position was clear: foreign hawkers who cannot produce the required documentation should not continue operating in Kenya.