Kenya Responds to Sudan’s Import Ban Amid Rising Tensions Over RSF

Kenya downplays Sudan’s indefinite import ban, viewing it as an overreaction. The ban follows Sudan’s unease regarding Kenya’s hosting of the RSF amid ongoing regional tensions. Kenyan officials reaffirm commitment to dialogue for resolving the Sudanese conflict, underscoring the significant impact of the war on trade between the two nations.

The Kenyan government has reacted lightly to Sudan’s decree suspending all imports from Kenya indefinitely. This decision was made following a Cabinet resolution that aims to penalize Kenya for hosting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. According to Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply, the suspension is a protective measure for national interests amid rising tensions.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei deemed Sudan’s action a “gross overreaction,” asserting that Kenya will continue to advocate for dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict in Sudan. He emphasized that the already existing war has significantly reduced Kenya’s exports to Sudan, making the import ban less impactful.

The conflict in Sudan has been ongoing since April 2023, with both the Sudanese army and RSF vying for state control. The war has resulted in thousands of casualties and mass displacements. Kenya’s engagement with the RSF has raised concerns about its foreign policy, with the Sudanese government accusing it of violating their sovereignty.

The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Kenya for hosting the RSF, labeling it as an endorsement of violence against civilians. The African Union has also expressed concern over the situation, warning of the potential fragmentation of the nation as tensions escalate.

In essence, the Kenyan government’s dismissal of Sudan’s import suspension reflects its commitment to dialogue amid conflict, despite concerns about regional repercussions. The ongoing war in Sudan continues to precipitate humanitarian crises while challenging Kenya’s foreign policy stance, particularly regarding its engagement with contentious groups such as the RSF. The situation underlines the urgency for diplomatic intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: www.citizen.digital