KHARTOUM, SUDAN — Sudan has imposed a complete suspension of imports from Kenya, a retaliatory measure prompted by Kenya’s hosting of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a key participant in Sudan’s ongoing two-year civil war.
The decision stems from the RSF and its allied political and armed groups’ signing of a founding charter in Kenya last month, which outlined their intent to form a parallel government within Sudan.
Sudan’s military government justified the import ban as a necessary step to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and “protect its national security.”
The import ban targets a range of Kenyan goods, including tea, food products, and pharmaceuticals. “The import of all products coming from Kenya through all ports, crossings, airports, and ports will be suspended as of this day until further notice,” stated a decree issued by Sudan’s Ministry of Trade. The decree also directed “all relevant authorities to enforce the ban immediately.”
Tensions between Kenya and Sudan have escalated in recent months. Kenyan President William Ruto has faced domestic criticism for his perceived close relations with the RSF.
Last month, Sudan recalled its ambassador to Kenya, protesting Nairobi’s alleged involvement in a “conspiracy to establish a government” for the RSF. Sudan characterized Kenya’s hosting of RSF meetings as “tantamount to an act of hostility.”
However, Kenya defended its actions, asserting that hosting the meetings was part of its efforts to facilitate a resolution to the Sudanese conflict “without any ulterior motives.”
Historically, Kenya and Sudan have maintained robust trade ties, with Kenya serving as a significant partner for Sudan, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Kenya exports various goods to Sudan, with tea being the most prominent, followed by coffee, tobacco, and other products such as soaps, electrical equipment, and pharmaceuticals.
Given that tea is a primary source of foreign exchange for Kenya, this trade disruption is expected to have a significant impact on both trade flows and the broader Kenyan economy. “This ban will be a big blow, and foreign exchange will take a hit. It would mean less foreign exchange and greater exposure to financial services. It has a ripple effect that extends beyond just trade,” economist Ken Gichinga told the media.
The Kenyan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the import ban. However, Agriculture Minister Mutahi Kagwe recently indicated that Kenya is exploring diplomatic avenues to address the market access challenges in Sudan.
The import ban coincides with a period of declining Kenyan tea exports to Sudan due to the ongoing conflict. A recent report documented a 12% reduction in Kenyan tea exports to Sudan over the past year.
The Sudanese civil war, which began in April 2023, has caused widespread devastation, disrupting supply chains and hindering business operations. Vital trade infrastructure, including ports and border crossings, has been damaged or obstructed by the violence, significantly impeding the movement of goods between Sudan and its neighboring countries, including Kenya.
The conflict has resulted in widespread destruction throughout Sudan, including the capital Khartoum, with thousands of fatalities and over 12 million displaced individuals, according to the United Nations.
