Kenya dismisses Sudan’s indefinite import ban as an overreaction to hosting RSF. The Kenyan government is focused on advocating dialogue to resolve Sudan’s conflict, which has already reduced its exports drastically. The ongoing war has caused severe instability in Sudan, raising concerns about Kenya’s foreign policy integrity. Sudan’s government accused Kenya of violating its sovereignty, while the African Union warned of risks to national unity.
The Kenyan government has downplayed Sudan’s decree suspending indefinitely all imports from Kenya, following the country hosting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi last month. This decision was made by Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply as a response to perceived facilitation of RSF activities by Kenya. The Sudanese Cabinet justified the suspension based on national interest and security concerns.
Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, dismissed the Sudanese action as a “gross overreaction”. He emphasized that Kenya remains committed to advocating for dialogue to resolve the Sudanese conflict, which has severely limited Kenya’s exports to Sudan by nearly 90% due to ongoing warfare. Sing’oei stated, “The decision is a gross overreaction. It will not deter Kenya from privileging dialogue…”
The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese government and RSF forces has led to significant instability since April 2023, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. Control of regions within Sudan is divided, with the Sudanese army dominating the East and North and RSF occupying the Western and Southern areas. Kenya’s decision to host RSF was seen as a potential destabilizing factor in the region, raising concerns regarding the nation’s foreign policy.
The Sudanese government condemned Kenya’s actions as a violation of its sovereignty and as interference in its internal affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “Hosting leaders of the terrorist RSF militia… constitutes endorsement of and complicity in these heinous crimes.” Additionally, the African Union expressed concern about the implications of this conflict, warning it could lead to the partitioning of Sudan.
In summary, the Kenyan government has confidently addressed Sudan’s ban on its imports, expressing that the suspension is an excessive response. Emphasizing dialogue as essential for resolving Sudan’s ongoing conflict, Kenya remains committed to its diplomatic role in the region, despite the complexities introduced by its relations with the RSF. The situation underscores the delicate balance of foreign policy and regional stability in East Africa.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital
