Sudan has officially suspended all imports from Kenya, a move taken in protest after the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been engaged in a two-year civil war against Sudan’s army, held a meeting in Nairobi. Last month, the RSF and its allies signed a founding charter in Kenya, expressing their intent to form a parallel government in Sudan, further escalating tensions between the two nations.
The Sudanese government cited the suspension as a necessary measure to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and protect its national security. Sudan imports a variety of goods from Kenya, including tea, food products, and pharmaceuticals, which play a significant role in the country’s economy.
A decree issued by Sudan’s Ministry of Trade confirmed the suspension, declaring, “The import of all products coming from Kenya through all ports, crossings, airports, and ports will be suspended as of this day until further notice.” It ordered immediate enforcement of the ban by all relevant authorities.
Tensions between the two nations have been mounting for several months, with Kenyan President William Ruto facing criticism domestically for his perceived close ties to the RSF. Sudan has accused Kenya of being involved in a conspiracy to help establish a government for the RSF, calling Kenya’s hosting of RSF meetings “tantamount to an act of hostility.”
Kenya defended its actions, arguing that hosting the RSF meetings was part of its efforts to find a peaceful resolution to Sudan’s ongoing conflict, with no ulterior motives.
Historically, Kenya and Sudan have maintained strong trade relations, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing. Kenya exports a variety of goods to Sudan, with tea being the most prominent. Tea, in particular, is one of Kenya’s major foreign exchange earners, making this trade disruption a significant blow to both countries’ economies.
Economists have warned that the import ban will have a ripple effect beyond just trade, affecting foreign exchange and financial services in both countries.
Kenya’s tea industry, which counts Sudan as one of its top five export destinations, is particularly concerned about the economic impact of the suspension. The move is expected to disrupt trade flows and further strain relations between the two nations.
