Sudan has imposed an immediate ban on all imports from Kenya following the latter's hosting of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. The RSF, which has been engaged in a two-year civil war with Sudan’s military, recently signed a founding charter in Kenya to establish a parallel government in Sudan.
Sudan's military government justified the import ban as a measure to protect the nation's sovereignty and national security. The East African nation relies on Kenya for several imports, including tea, food products, and pharmaceuticals.
The Sudanese Ministry of Trade issued a statement declaring, "All goods imported from Kenya through ports, airlines, and border crossings are suspended effective immediately and until further notice." The ministry also directed all relevant authorities to enforce the ban without delay.
The move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the two nations. Relations between Kenya and Sudan have been fraught for months, largely due to accusations from Sudan that Kenya is supporting the RSF by hosting meetings for the rebel group. Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Kenya in protest.
Kenyan President William Ruto, facing domestic backlash over his perceived ties to Sudan’s ruling party, has denied these allegations, stating that Kenya’s role was solely to facilitate peace talks as a neutral platform. He emphasized that the goal of the meetings was to resolve the conflict in Sudan, with "no other purpose beyond that."
The two countries share strong trade relations, with Kenya being a key partner to Sudan, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing. Kenya exports a variety of goods to Sudan, including tea, coffee, tobacco, and pharmaceuticals.
As the situation unfolds, the economic and diplomatic implications of this ban remain to be seen.
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