Sudan has banned all imports from Kenya following Kenya’s hosting of the RSF, a rebel group it sees as a threat to national security. Sudan’s Acting Minister of Trade indicated that this decision aims to protect Sudanese interests, and a formal complaint will be submitted to the African Union. The situation complicates trade relations, with Kenya’s response remaining unclear.
The government of Sudan has enacted a suspension of all imports from Kenya, a response to Kenya’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel group engaged in conflict with the Sudanese army. This restriction, effective immediately, prohibits entry of goods via ports, railways, and air transport, as detailed in a notice issued by Sudan’s Acting Minister of Trade and Supplies, Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali.
Omar indicated that the ban aims to safeguard Sudan’s national interests and security following Kenya’s perceived defiance in sponsoring the RSF in Nairobi. He confirmed that the directive would remain in effect until further notice, mandating enforcement by all relevant authorities within Sudan.
Despite the imposition of this ban, the administration of President William Ruto has not yet publicly addressed the situation. Kenya exports various products to Sudan, including agricultural goods like tea, food items, and pharmaceuticals. The RSF and allied groups had signed a political charter on February 22 in Nairobi, designed to create an alternative administration to the Sudanese government.
Two days post-charter signing, Sudanese Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Hussein Al Fadil cautioned against the possibility of an import ban on Kenya in a press conference held on February 24. He highlighted Sudan’s intention to file a formal complaint with the African Union and other international bodies, seeking decisive action against Kenya.
Al Fadil asserted, “This is due to the interference in Sudan’s internal affairs and the hosting of events for the terrorist RSF militia and its allies, which target Sudan’s security, stability, and unity.” He warned that the measures would be progressive and noted potential economic sanctions, including the ban on Kenyan imports, underlining that President Ruto’s actions violate international agreements such as those of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
In summary, Sudan’s suspension of imports from Kenya reflects escalating tensions exacerbated by Kenya’s hosting of the RSF, a rebel group opposed to the Sudanese government. The Sudanese authorities have enacted this ban to protect national interests while warning of potential economic sanctions. The situation remains unresolved, with Kenya’s response still pending amid international concerns about compliance with diplomatic norms.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
