Kenya Responds to Sudan’s Import Ban Amid RSF Hosting Controversy

Kenya has minimized Sudan’s ban on its imports, which was enacted due to tensions following Kenya’s hosting of the RSF. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei called the ban a “gross overreaction” and reiterated Kenya’s commitment to dialogue for peace amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has severely impacted trade.

The Kenyan government has responded to Sudan’s recent decree suspending all imports from Kenya indefinitely due to the hosting of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Supply announced this decision, which results from a Cabinet resolution aimed at penalizing Kenya for its alleged facilitation of RSF activities, heightening the regional tensions.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei characterized the Sudanese decision as a “gross overreaction.” He asserted that Kenya will persist in advocating dialogue as the means to resolve the ongoing conflict in Sudan, emphasizing that the war has already hindered Kenyan exports significantly, reducing them by nearly 90%.

Korir pointed out that the conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has led to substantial humanitarian crises, displacing hundreds of thousands and causing significant civilian casualties. He remarked, “The decision is a gross overreaction. It will not deter Kenya from privileging dialogue as the only mode of resolving the Sudanese conflict.”

The situation escalated as the Sudanese army and RSF forces tussle for control, leading to chaos across the nation. The RSF’s activities in Kenya, including signing a charter for a parallel government, raise concerns about Kenya’s foreign policy and its historical role as a mediator in regional conflicts.

Sudan’s initial response underlined a violation of its sovereignty due to Kenya’s actions, stating that hosting the RSF amounted to complicity in ongoing crimes against civilians. The African Union also condemned Sudan’s ban on Kenyan imports, warning of the risks of further destabilization in the nation.

In summary, the Kenyan government has dismissed Sudan’s recent ban on its imports, describing it as an excessive response. While escalating conflict between the Sudanese army and RSF raises serious concerns, Kenya remains focused on fostering dialogue for peace. Analysis of this situation calls attention to Kenya’s historical role in mediating regional disputes, highlighting the complexities of foreign relations amidst domestic turmoil in Sudan.

Original Source: www.citizen.digital