Sudan has announced an immediate suspension of all imports from Kenya, citing national security concerns following Kenya’s recent engagement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group involved in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict.
Sudan’s Import Ban on Kenyan Goods
On March 14, 2025, Sudan’s Acting Minister of Trade and Supplies, Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali, issued a decree halting all imports from Kenya. This decision, based on Cabinet Resolution No. 129 of 2024, affects all ports, border crossings, airports, and entry points, and is to be enforced immediately until further notice.
The suspension is expected to impact Kenya’s economy, particularly its tea industry. In 2023, Kenya exported goods worth approximately USD 48.2 million to Sudan, with tea accounting for USD 29.6 million of that total. Other exports included processed tobacco and seed oils. The loss of the Sudanese market could have significant financial implications for Kenyan exporters.
Diplomatic Strains and Recall of Ambassador
The import ban follows Sudan’s earlier decision to recall its ambassador to Kenya on February 20, 2025. Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Kenya of violating international law by hosting RSF leaders, who have been implicated in serious human rights violations, including genocide and attacks on civilian populations. The Ministry’s statement emphasized that such actions by Kenya could be seen as an endorsement of these crimes.
African Union’s Position on RSF’s Actions
The African Union (AU) has also expressed concern over the RSF’s attempts to establish a parallel government. The AU’s Peace and Security Council condemned the move, warning of the potential risk of Sudan’s partition. The Council urged all AU member states and the international community to refrain from recognizing or supporting any entity seeking to govern parts of Sudan outside the established government framework.
Kenya’s Response and Regional Implications
Kenya has defended its decision to host the RSF representatives, stating that the meetings were part of efforts to find solutions to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan, in coordination with the United Nations and the African Union.
The diplomatic rift between Sudan and Kenya underscores the complexities of regional politics in East Africa. Kenya’s involvement with the RSF, intended as a peace-building effort, has been perceived by Sudan as interference in its internal affairs, leading to significant economic and diplomatic consequences. The situation highlights the delicate balance countries must maintain when engaging with non-state actors involved in neighboring conflicts.
As the situation develops, the broader implications for regional stability and economic relations remain uncertain. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and adherence to international law in resolving such disputes.
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