Sudan has banned all imports from Kenya due to tensions over the RSF’s presence in Nairobi. This decision affects key products like tea and pharmaceuticals critical for both economies. The conflict in Sudan has already impacted trade negatively, with ongoing violence exacerbating supply chain issues and causing significant human displacement.
Sudan has officially prohibited all imports from Kenya following its hosting of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are currently engaged in a civil conflict with the Sudanese army. The RSF, along with allied factions, signed a charter in Kenya last month aiming to establish a competing government in Sudan. This ban reflects Sudan’s desire to protect its sovereignty and maintain national security amidst rising tensions with Kenya.
The import ban affects various products, including tea, food, and pharmaceuticals, which are critical to Sudan’s economy. A decree from Sudan’s ministry of trade outlined that all imports from Kenya via ports, crossings, and airports would be suspended indefinitely. Relevant authorities have been instructed to enforce this ban promptly.
Frictions between the two nations have escalated for months, with Kenyan President William Ruto criticized domestically for perceived favoritism towards the RSF. Sudan recently pulled its ambassador from Nairobi to express discontent over Kenya’s perceived involvement in establishing a government for the RSF, labeling the hosting of RSF meetings as an act of hostility.
In response, Kenya has defended its activities as efforts to facilitate peace in Sudan, asserting there are no hidden intentions behind hosting RSF meetings. Traditionally, Kenya and Sudan share robust trade ties, with tea as Kenya’s principal export, alongside coffee and pharmaceuticals, critical for Sudan’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
The suspension of imports is expected to negatively affect trade and foreign exchange. Economist Ken Gichinga cautioned that the ban would significantly disrupt economic dynamics and foreign exchange availability in Kenya. Meanwhile, the Kenyan government has yet to respond publicly, although Agriculture Minister Mutahi Kagwe indicated ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the challenges in market access.
This ban arrives at a challenging time as Kenya’s tea exports have already declined, revealing a 12% decrease in shipments to Sudan in the past year due to ongoing conflict. Since the onset of violence in Sudan in April 2023, critical supply chains have deteriorated, with significant damage to ports and border crossings obstructing normal trade operations. The conflict has led to substantial devastation in Sudan, especially in areas like Khartoum, resulting in thousands of casualties and millions displaced, according to the United Nations.
The recent ban on imports from Kenya by Sudan marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions linked to the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. The LGF’s hosting of the RSF has prompted Sudan to enforce measures to safeguard its sovereignty, thereby disrupting vital trade exchanges. Economic impacts are anticipated to extend beyond just trade, influencing foreign exchange dynamics in both countries. As the situation evolves, both nations’ diplomatic efforts will be critical in resolving these tensions and restoring trade relations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
