Sudan suspends all imports from Kenya over RSF meetings 

SUDAN – Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply has announced an immediate suspension of all imports from Kenya, citing Kenya’s hosting of meetings with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies. 

On February 23, Kenya hosted discussions between the RSF and groups including the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, factions of the Revolutionary Front, the National Umma Party, and other political entities.  

These meetings resulted in the signing of a political charter and a transitional constitution, paving the way for a parallel authority in RSF-controlled areas. The move was met with both domestic and international condemnation. 

Following the announcement of the charter, Sudan took escalating diplomatic measures against Kenya. The Foreign Ministry recalled its ambassador from Nairobi and later banned Kenyan products, primarily tea. 

A decree issued by Trade Minister Omar Ahmed Mohamed stated that imports of all products originating from Kenya would be suspended through all ports, crossings, airports, and entry points, effective immediately and until further notice. 

The decree cited Cabinet Decision No. 129 of 2024 and Cabinet Decision No. 104 of 2021 as legal justifications. It also noted that the ban was recommended by a cabinet committee addressing Kenya’s engagement with the RSF and its allies.  

Sudanese authorities have emphasized that the decision aimed to protect national security, affirm sovereignty, and safeguard Sudan’s supreme interests. 

According to trade data, Sudan is the tenth-largest importer of Kenyan tea globally and the second-largest African importer of the product.  

Data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) shows that Kenya exported $48.2 million worth of goods to Sudan in 2023, with tea accounting for $29.6 million, followed by processed tobacco ($3.66 million) and seed oils ($1.84 million). 

Kenyan exports to Sudan have declined at an annualized rate of 7.07% over the past five years, dropping from $69.5 million in 2018 to $48.2 million in 2023. 

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