Why The Removal of Vetting for Somali Kenyans is A Miscalculated Timing —Yasin Ali, Analyst

The recent announcement by President William Ruto to remove the mandatory vetting of the Somali community Kenya has come at a difficult time for the community. While this decision seeks to correct a historical injustice, it risks overshadowing the hard-earned progress Somali Kenyans have made over the decades.

For years, they have fought systemic barriers, proving their resilience through economic growth, educational advancements, and strong community cohesion. Now, their success story may be unfairly attributed to political intervention rather than the sacrifices and efforts that brought them here.

The Origins of Vetting

Mandatory vetting was introduced due to Kenya’s proximity to Somalia and concerns over undocumented migration. Over time, security fears—particularly linked to Al-Shabaab—became a justification for maintaining this policy. However, instead of specifically targeting illegal entrants, the system unfairly treated all Somali Kenyans as suspects, forcing them to prove their citizenship in ways no other ethnic group had to endure.

The Impact on the Somali Community

This discriminatory vetting process denied many Somali Kenyans their fundamental rights. Without national IDs, they struggled to secure jobs, register businesses, or even move freely within the country. Many were also locked out of the political system, unable to vote or participate in governance. The process was further plagued by corruption, delays, and, in some cases, outright denial of citizenship, creating a cycle of exclusion and frustration.

The End of Vetting: A Step Toward Equality

President Ruto’s executive order eliminating the vetting process is a long-overdue step toward fairness and inclusion. It acknowledges that Somali Kenyans are equal citizens who should not have to prove their legitimacy differently from others. This decision restores dignity to those who have long suffered under discriminatory policies and removes an unnecessary hurdle that has hindered their full participation in national development.

However, while this move is a victory for justice, it also raises concerns. The timing of the decision, coming at a moment when Somali Kenyans have solidified their presence in key sectors, may lead some to perceive it as politically motivated rather than a genuine correction of past wrongs. Additionally, questions about security oversight remain, as Kenya still faces threats that originally justified the vetting process.

Beyond Vetting: Recognizing Somali Kenyans’ Achievements

The Somali community’s success should not be defined by the removal of vetting but by their dedication to education, economic progress, and unity. Over the decades, they have built thriving businesses, excelled in academia, and strengthened their social cohesion. Their achievements stand as proof of what perseverance and strategic growth can accomplish, and these should be celebrated on their own merit—not as the result of a policy change.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

While ending vetting is a positive step toward equality, its implications must be carefully considered. On one hand, it eliminates an unfair practice that has long stigmatized an entire community. On the other, it introduces concerns about security and the political motivations behind the decision.

Ultimately, what matters most is that all Kenyans, regardless of ethnicity, are judged by their contributions, not by past injustices or political decisions. The Somali community has earned its place in Kenya’s success story through hard work and determination, and that legacy should stand on its own.

Yassin Ali is a Social-Political Analyst based in Lodwar, Turkana County