Kenya downplays Sudan’s indefinite import ban as a gross overreaction to its hosting of the RSF. The Kenyan government emphasizes ongoing efforts for dialogue to resolve the conflict despite reduced exports due to war. Sudan’s Cabinet cites national security concerns as the reason for the ban, while the RSF’s actions have sparked regional tension and condemnation from the African Union.
The Kenyan government has minimized the impact of Sudan’s recent decree to indefinitely suspend all imports from Kenya. This measure was enacted following Sudan’s Cabinet resolution aimed at penalizing Kenya for hosting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi last month, citing national security interests.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei dismissed Sudan’s actions as a “gross overreaction” and affirmed Kenya’s commitment to facilitating dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict in Sudan. He pointed out that the conflict has already drastically reduced Kenya’s exports to Sudan by nearly 90%, making the ban largely irrelevant.
The conflict between the Sudanese government and RSF forces began in April 2023 and has led to substantial loss of life and widespread displacement. The Sudanese military has gained control over the Eastern and Northern regions while the RSF dominates in the Western and Southern parts.
Kenya’s decision to host the RSF, which seeks to form a parallel government, has raised questions about its foreign policy. The Sudanese Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned this hosting as a breach of its sovereignty, alleging that it endorses the RSF’s involvement in atrocities against civilians, including genocide and sexual violence.
The African Union has also expressed disapproval of Kenya’s involvement, warning of the potential for significant destabilization in Sudan.
In summary, the Kenyan government views Sudan’s ban on imports as an exaggerated response to its hosting of the RSF. Despite the ongoing conflict impacting trade, Kenya maintains its stance on advocating for dialogical resolutions. The issues surrounding this situation highlight Kenya’s position in regional politics and the severe implications of the RSF’s actions in Sudan, which have drawn international condemnation.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital
