CS Fred Matiang'i orders deportation of 6 Chinese nationals trading in Gikomba market

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i on Wednesday ordered the deportation of 6 Chinese nationals with stalls at the Gikomba Market.

Speaking in Nakuru County, the CS clarified that the 6 had been found to be working in the area illegally.

Dr Matiang'i explained that Kenya does not offer work permits to foreigners while they are already in the country.

CS Fred Matiang'i, Immigration PS Gordon Kihalangwa and Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui. 5 Chinese nationals working at Gikomba market to be deported Pulse Live Kenya

According to the CS, the Chinese nationals ought to have applied and obtained Kenyan work permits while still in China.

The CS further explained that the Kenyan work permits do not have a category for professionals called traders therefore the business they were conducting is a violation of the parameters prescribed in their immigration papers.

"It is illegal for foreigners to engage in local trading in Kenya. We do not have a classification of foreign traders coming to Kenya to do hawking or local trading. we will escort then to the airport, bid them bye and ensure they have their dinner at their countries by tomorrow evening," a brief statement from the CS's office confirmed.

Dr Matiang'i officially opened an immigration service centre in Nakuru County to provide relief for Nyayo House that has been the sole centre where Kenyans can get passports.

Chinese traders in Gikomba Market cause a stir

The Chinese traders were highlighted earlier in the week as traders in Nairobi's major markets - Gikomba, Nyamakima and Kamukunji - complained of their growing dominance that is affecting business.

A report by the Business Daily indicated that the Chinese traders had taken over the import of second-hand clothes as well as cheap Chinese wares.

In addition, the Chinese group is said to have scaled up in the wholesale and retail business due to their financial muscle.