Sudan has implemented a ban on all imports from Kenya, motivated by the hosting of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. This move aims to protect Sudan’s sovereignty and has serious implications for bilateral trade, particularly affecting vital sectors like tea and food imports. The situation reflects heightened tensions between the two nations amidst ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Sudan has announced a complete ban on imports from Kenya, responding to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) being hosted in Nairobi. This decision follows a recent founding charter signed by the RSF and its allies in Kenya, aiming to establish a parallel government in Sudan. The military regime of Sudan cites the need to safeguard national sovereignty and security as key reasons for this measure.
The order specifies that all imports from Kenya, including tea, food items, and pharmaceuticals, will cease effective immediately, impacting various trade routes such as ports and airports. The decree from Sudan’s trade ministry mandates immediate enforcement by all relevant authorities. Increased tensions between the two nations have been noticeable, especially after Kenya’s President William Ruto drew criticism for his perceived closeness with the RSF.
Sudan’s diplomatic relations deteriorated further last month when it recalled its ambassador from Nairobi, labeling Kenya’s involvement as a conspiracy against it. Sudan characterized Kenya’s actions in supporting RSF meetings as hostile, while Kenya has defended its role as aimed only at finding a resolution to the Sudanese conflict without ulterior motives.
Historically, Kenya and Sudan have maintained robust trade relations. Kenya is a primary supplier to Sudan in agriculture and manufacturing, exporting key products like tea, coffee, and pharmaceuticals. The recent ban is projected to disrupt these transactions significantly, particularly affecting Kenya’s tea exports, which contribute substantially to foreign exchange earnings.
Economists warn of broader economic consequences, with Ken Gichinga highlighting that the ban will adversely impact foreign exchange and financial services further afield. While the Kenyan government has yet to respond officially, efforts to find diplomatic solutions to the trade barriers are reportedly underway, especially as ongoing conflict has already strained tea exports by 12% in the past year.
The extended war in Sudan, starting in April 2023, has devastated local infrastructures, including crucial ports and border crossings, adversely affecting trade and leading to widespread humanitarian crises, with significant loss of life and massive displacement reported by the United Nations.
The Sudanese government’s ban on imports from Kenya highlights increasing diplomatic tensions linked to the RSF’s activities in Nairobi. This action is expected to deeply affect trade relationships, particularly in crucial sectors like agriculture. Despite the ongoing economic strain from the conflict in Sudan, both nations are exploring possible diplomatic approaches to address these issues. The developments underscore the fragility of regional relations amid ongoing violence in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
