Sudan’s military leadership has imposed an immediate ban on all imports from Kenya, including tea, in response to Nairobi’s alleged backing of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its role in facilitating a parallel government.
A circular issued on Thursday by Sudan’s Ministry of Trade, and seen by The Eastleigh Voice, directed an immediate halt to Kenyan imports.
“The import of all products coming from Kenya through all ports, crossings, airports, and ports will be suspended as of this day until further notice,” read the directive, written in Arabic and signed by acting Trade Minister Omar Ahmed Mohamed.
The move marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Sudan’s junta, based in Port Sudan, has accused Kenya of siding with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (“Hemedti”) at the expense of Sudan’s sovereignty.
Kenya’s hosting of Dagalo has been a sticking point for Sudan’s army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who has repeatedly criticized Nairobi’s role in the ongoing conflict.
The trade ban is expected to have economic consequences, particularly for Kenya’s tea sector. Sudan has been one of Kenya’s key tea markets in North Africa, and the embargo could disrupt trade flows.
With relations deteriorating, it remains to be seen whether diplomatic efforts will be made to ease the standoff or if further retaliatory measures will follow.
