Sudan has announced a complete suspension of imports from Kenya following the hosting of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. The RSF, which has been engaged in a two-year civil war with Sudan’s army, was part of a political and armed group alliance that recently signed a founding charter in Kenya. This charter outlines their plans to establish a parallel government in Sudan.
In response, Sudan’s military government declared the import ban, emphasizing the need to protect the country's sovereignty and national security. The ban applies to all imports from Kenya, including essential products such as tea, food, and pharmaceuticals.
A decree issued by Sudan's Ministry of Trade stated that "the import of all products from Kenya through ports, crossings, airports, and other entry points will be suspended until further notice." It further instructed relevant authorities to implement the ban immediately.
The move comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, which have been growing for several months. Kenyan President William Ruto has faced domestic backlash for his perceived close ties with the RSF. Last month, Sudan responded by recalling its ambassador to Kenya, accusing Nairobi of participating in a “conspiracy” to establish a government for the RSF. Sudan labeled Kenya’s hosting of RSF meetings as an "act of hostility."
However, Kenya has defended its actions, insisting that the meetings were aimed at finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan, with no hidden agenda.
Historically, Kenya and Sudan have maintained strong trade relations, with Kenya serving as a key partner in agriculture and manufacturing for Sudan. Among the goods Kenya exports to Sudan, tea is the most significant, followed by coffee, tobacco, soaps, electrical equipment, and pharmaceuticals. The import ban is expected to significantly disrupt trade flows, with major consequences for both nations' economies.
Kenyan economist Ken Gichinga warned that the ban would have broader economic implications. "This ban will deal a heavy blow, particularly in terms of foreign exchange. The ripple effect will extend well beyond just trade, affecting financial services and economic stability," he said.
While the Kenyan government has not officially commented on the ban, Agriculture Minister Mutahi Kagwe recently mentioned that Kenya is exploring diplomatic solutions to resolve the market access challenges in Sudan.
The timing of the ban is particularly problematic, as Kenya’s tea exports were already experiencing difficulties due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. A report revealed that Kenyan tea exports to Sudan have decreased by 12% in the past year.
The war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has wreaked havoc on the country’s infrastructure and economy. Supply chains have been severely disrupted, with key ports and border crossings either damaged or obstructed by ongoing violence. This has drastically limited trade between Sudan and its neighboring countries, including Kenya.
The conflict has also led to widespread devastation across Sudan, particularly in the capital Khartoum, where thousands have been killed, and more than 12 million people have been displaced, according to the United Nations.
Source; theghanareport
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