Sudan’s ban on Kenyan imports is expected to cost the Kenyan economy millions of shillings following an escalation of tensions after the Kenyan government allowed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to meet and sign a charter to form a parallel government in Nairobi.
The ruling Sudanese military establishment says the ban is intended ‘to preserve the country’s sovereignty and protect its national security.’
Troubled Sudan imports a wide range of products directly from Kenya. Among them is tea – a leading agricultural export from Kenya to the Sudan. Sudan also imports several food items and pharmaceuticals.
An edict issued by the Sudan’s Ministry of Trade reads in part: “The import of all products coming from Kenya through all ports, crossings, and airports will be suspended as of this day until further notice.” The
The directive further ordered all relevant authorities at key entry points for imports to enforce the ban immediately.
Sudan’s Ban On Kenyan Imports A Result of Escalations
Sudan’s ban on Kenyan imports comes as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate. The latest round of tensions tips the scale that has been swaying for several months and has led to the recal of Sudan’s ambassador to Kenya.
There have been widespread allegations that Kenya’s President William Ruto’s close ties with the RSF is linked to a number of vested and unconventional interests between the two sides in Kenya and in the Sudan.
For decades, Kenya has primarily relied on Tea exports to African Union countries, the European Union, Asia and the Americas to boost its foreign currency reserves. It remains to be seen what impact the ban has on both countries in the short term and in the long term.
The RSF advisor El Basha Tebeig sought to reassure Kenya, stating on X that RSF would “guarantee the smooth passage of Kenyan goods into Sudan” In the areas that it controls.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has said the country was exploring diplomatic avenues to address the market access challenges in Sudan. A recent report showed a 12% reduction in Kenyan tea exports to Sudan over the past year as a result of the ongoing conflict.
According to the BBC, the war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has caused widespread destruction, disrupting supply chains and limiting the ability of businesses to operate normally.
Ports and border crossings, vital for trade, have been either damaged or obstructed by the violence, significantly reducing the flow of goods between Sudan and its neighbours, including Kenya.
The conflict has devastated large parts of Sudan – including the capital Khartoum – with thousands of people killed and more than 12 million displaced, according to the United Nations.
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