An alarming rate number of migrants from Burundi have been trekking to Kenya in search of greener pastures.
BNN, an international publication reports that most Burundians are escaping insecurity in their war-torn country in search of relative calm in Kenya.
While Burundi has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Africa at 1 per cent, it is also the second poorest country in the world after South Sudan according to World Population Review and World Bank.
Fighting extreme poverty back at home, Burundians are seeking better employment opportunities in Kenya.
While Kenyans battle a high cost of living, Burundians feel that Kenya has far better living standards than compared to their home country.
Additionally, the refugees feel that the political climate in Kenya is more tolerant compared to Burundi.
The increased migration has hurt Burundi and it is already crippling the economy through talent haemorrhage.
Most of the refugees seeking new homes in Kenya are learned which is denying Burundi much-needed skilled labour.
The strain is not only in Burundi but also in Kenya, this is because the increased number of refugees and migrants seeking asylum is straining public services and resources.
Additionally, a significant number of Burundians are entering the country through illegal routes which poses a security threat to Kenya.
While Kenya has abolished Visa requirements for all citizens of the world, visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
This enables the immigration department to keep a database of foreigners visiting the country detailing key information such as the purpose of the visit.
ETA further enables Kenya to secure its borders by ensuring that the country does not act as a safe haven for fugitives.
