Sudan Bans Importation of Kenyan Products Over RSF Allegations
The Sudanese government has announced a blanket ban on the importation of Kenyan products, escalating tensions between the two nations over Kenya’s alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In a directive issued on March 11, 2025, Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply ordered the immediate suspension of all Kenyan imports through its ports, crossings, and airports.
“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,” Acting Minister Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali declared in the directive. “All concerned parties must implement the decision.”
Kenya Accused of Supporting RSF
The move follows a resolution by Sudan’s Cabinet, which accuses Kenya of facilitating RSF activities by allowing its members to host meetings and sign agreements within Nairobi. The Sudanese Sovereign Council claims that Kenya has provided a platform for the paramilitary group, undermining Sudan’s national security.
“Based on Cabinet Resolution No. 129 of 2024, and in accordance with the powers stipulated in Cabinet Resolution No. 104 of 2021, the Sudanese government is taking this action to preserve the country’s supreme interests, sovereignty, and national security,” read a statement from the council.
The Sudanese government specifically referenced an RSF-led unity pact signed in Nairobi after four days of negotiations involving various stakeholders. The event was hosted at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), a decision Sudan claims violates diplomatic norms and the principles of non-interference.
Kenya Accused of Hostile Acts
The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs further accused Kenya of engaging in “hostile actions” by hosting RSF leaders and allowing them to conduct political and propaganda activities within its territory.
“Hosting leaders of the terrorist RSF militia and allowing them to conduct political and propaganda activities constitutes an endorsement of and complicity in these heinous crimes,” the Sudanese government stated.
The statement further asserted that Kenya had broken its previous commitment to remain neutral in Sudan’s internal conflict, stating, “This action by the Kenyan government not only violates the principles of good neighbourliness but also contravenes the pledges Kenya has made at the highest levels not to allow hostile activities against Sudan on its soil. It is, therefore, tantamount to an act of hostility against the entire Sudanese people.”
Diplomatic Fallout and Economic Impact
The ban on Kenyan imports is expected to have economic consequences for both countries. Sudan relies on Kenyan products, including agricultural goods, pharmaceuticals, and manufactured goods, while Kenyan exporters could face losses due to the trade restriction.
Kenyan authorities have yet to issue an official response to the ban. However, analysts warn that the move could strain bilateral relations and disrupt trade ties between the two nations.
The latest developments add another layer of complexity to Sudan’s internal conflict, which has pitted the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against the RSF since April 2023. As diplomatic tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how Kenya will navigate the growing rift with Khartoum while maintaining its role as a mediator in regional peace efforts.
In other news:Putin’s Ceasefire Conditions: A Path to Peace or a Strategic Delay?
Sudan Bans Importation of Kenyan Products Over RSF Allegations