The Kenyan government has reassured Burundian nationals of their safety following a viral video showing a confrontation in Nairobi. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei issued the assurance on July 22, 2026. Burundi diplomat Fred Ngoga also condemned the incident.
The government of Kenya has reassured Burundian nationals living and working in the country of safety amid reports of harassment after a viral video. In a statement on Wednesday, July 22, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei promised that the government is committed to the security and well-being of all nationals in Kenya, especially from the East African Community.
"To assure that our brothers and sisters from Burundi, as part of the citizens of Jumuiya, are safe in Kenya," Sing'Oei said in a message posted on X. The move comes after a viral video showed a Kenyan man allegedly confronting a Burundian for taking away jobs and business opportunities from Kenyans.
The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with many Kenyans distancing themselves from the remarks and reaffirming the country's long-standing tradition of welcoming citizens from across the East African region. Burundi diplomat Fred Ngoga condemned the incident and dismissed claims of mistreatment.
"The majority of Kenyans are decent and good people who welcome their brothers and sisters from Burundi. We also intermarry. A majority have rejected this hate. I commend them," Ngoga stated. Kenya and Burundi are among the EAC member states whose citizens regularly cross borders for trade, employment, education and investment.
