Sudan has suspended imports from Kenya, citing national security concerns. This decision comes after Kenya’s choice to host the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi last month.
In a directive issued on March 11, 2025, Sudan’s Acting Minister for Trade and Supply, Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali, explained that the suspension was a response to a recommendation made by the country’s Sovereign Council.
“In accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. 129 of 2024 and Cabinet Resolution No. 104 of 2021, and based on recommendations from the Sovereign Council committee tasked with addressing Kenya’s involvement with the RSF and its allies, I hereby order the suspension of all imports from Kenya through all ports, border crossings, and airports effective immediately until further notice,” read the statement.
The ban of Kenyan goods entering through ports, airports and border crossings will be implemented till further notice. Sudanese authorities have been instructed to impose the directive immediately.
Sudan accused Kenyan government of facilitating and hosting Rapid Support Forces (RSF) conventions and activities in Nairobi. In February of this year, the RSF and multiple allied groups met in the Kenyan capital, and signed a charter that aimed to have a “government of peace and unity”. Previously, Kenya has been involved in resolving the conflict in Sudan.
The development comes after the African Union (AU) voiced a strong worry and denounced the declaration made by the Rapid Support Forces and its affiliated political forces regarding the formation of a parallel government, and the Sudan administration recalling its ambassador from Kenya in a protest
