- Sudan’s Trade Ministry has banned all imports from Kenya.
- The decision follows Kenya’s hosting of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi.
- Sudanese authorities claim Kenya is supporting RSF’s activities.
- The trade ban will lead to significant financial losses for Kenya.
Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply has halted all imports from Kenya, citing Nairobi’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The move signals growing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
In an official statement, Trade Minister Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali declared that no Kenyan products would be permitted entry into Sudan until further notice.
“The import of all products coming from the State of Kenya through all ports, crossings, airports, and outlets is suspended, effective from this date until further notice. All concerned parties must implement the decision,” the directive stated.
The ministry clarified that the decision was based on Cabinet Resolution No. 129 of 2024, reinforcing earlier provisions under Cabinet Resolution No. 104 of 2021. It follows recommendations from a committee formed by the Sovereignty Council to address Kenya’s engagement with RSF and its allies.
Nairobi’s RSF Meeting Sparks Controversy
The dispute stems from a political charter signed on February 23 in Nairobi by RSF leaders and allied factions. The document, which aims to establish a secular, democratic, and decentralized government in Sudan, was viewed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s administration as a direct threat to Sudan’s sovereignty.
Kenya’s decision to host the RSF leaders has been met with strong opposition from Khartoum, with Sudanese authorities accusing Nairobi of sponsoring RSF’s activities and meetings.
Economic Impact of the Trade Ban
Sudan ranks as one of Kenya’s top ten tea importers, and the ban could lead to billions in lost revenue for Kenya’s economy.
According to data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), Kenya exported goods worth $48.2 million (Ksh 6.2 billion) to Sudan in 2023. The halt in trade is expected to significantly impact Kenyan businesses, particularly in the tea and agricultural sectors.
