The Shadow Economy's Unwelcome Guests: Ruto's Crackdown on Foreign Traders The Kenyan president's decision to shut down small scale businesses operated by foreigners has sparked a heated debate about the role of migrants in the country's informal economy.
On its surface, William Ruto's announcement appears to be a straightforward move to protect local traders and hawkers.
However, it is a more complex issue than that – one that reflects deep seated anxieties about identity, economic opportunity, and regional politics.