Editor's Review

The government clarified that hosting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leaders in Nairobi does not imply Kenya’s support for the faction.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed claims by Sudan’s SAF administration that Kenya is responsible for the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

In a statement on Tuesday, April 29, the Ministry said it was aware that Sudan has written to Diplomatic and Consular Missions across the world, blaming Kenya for the war in their country.

The ministry called on the diplomatic corps to disregard the claims by Sudan, terming them baseless.

“The Government of the Republic of Kenya has taken note, with concern, of the circular note by Sudan’s SAF administration addressed to all Diplomatic and Consular Mission in various capitals shifting blame to Kenya for the tragic and unending conflict that has engulfed that country for over two years,” read part of the statement.

"While it is not in Kenya’s interest to engage in needless exchanges, especially on a matter so grievous and intractable, it is nonetheless incumbent to put the record straight and to urge people and nations of goodwill to disregard those tirades as baseless."

Photocollage of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and President William Ruto.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry noted that Kenya has met the leaders of the two warring sides in Sudan to try to resolve the conflict and stop the humanitarian crisis.

“In an effort to find a negotiated settlement, Kenya has met leaders of the two main warring sides in Nairobi, both simultaneously and at separate intervals, in accordance with its unrivalled credentials for peaceful conflict mediation,” the ministry stated.

The ministry also pointed out that the move to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi does not equate to Kenya supporting the faction.

Further, the ministry mentioned that if the Sudan conflict remains unresolved, it will continue to concern the region and the world at large, and Kenya will not remain passive.

“Recently, some Sudanese nationals gathered in Nairobi to discuss issues affecting their country and adopted a roadmap. The convening of this dialogue forum in our capital, Nairobi, or elsewhere on Kenya’s territory, neither equates to endorsing any forum’s outcome nor constitutes the formation of an exile government as has been alleged,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry noted.

Additionally, the ministry called on key players in the conflict in Sudan to find a pathway to peaceful resolution and end the bloodshed.

“While it is not in Kenya’s interest to engage in needless exchanges, especially on a matter so grievous and intractable, it is nonetheless incumbent to put the record straight and to urge people and nations of goodwill to disregard those tirades as baseless,” the statement added.

This comes a month after Sudan banned all imports from Kenya in protest of the country’s decision to host the RSF leaders in Nairobi.

Sudan’s Trade Minister, Omar Ahmed Mohamed Ali, in a letter, said products from Kenya would not be allowed in Sudan until further notice.

He said the directive was based on Cabinet Decision and recommendations from a committee formed to address Kenya’s hosting of the RSF, its allies, and its sponsors.

“The import of all products coming from the State of Kenya through all ports, crossings, airports, and outlets is suspended, effective from this date until further notice. All concerned parties must implement the decision,” Omar stated.