Written by Lisa Murimi
Sudan has lifted its ban on Kenyan imports, including tea, less than three weeks after imposing it.
President William Ruto confirmed this on Monday night, saying the decision was driven by economic reasons.
Speaking at Sagana State Lodge, Ruto stated that economic realities had compelled Sudan to restart tea imports from Kenya, bringing relief to farmers who depend on tea exports.
“Even after they said they are not buying our tea, the market itself has forced them,” Ruto said during the interview at Sagana State Lodge.
Sudan had banned Kenyan imports on March 14 after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) signed a charter in Kenya to form a rival government.
The Sudanese military said the ban was to protect national security.
“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,” a decree issued by Sudan’s Ministry of Trade stated.
However, Sudan’s economy is struggling, and inflation is high, making it hard to maintain the ban.
Before the war, Sudan bought about $37 million (Ksh 5 billion) worth of Kenyan tea every year. In 2024, this amount dropped to $18 million (Ksh2.3 billion) due to the ongoing conflict.
Besides tea, Kenya also exports food and medicine to Sudan, making trade important for both countries.
The decision to resume tea imports will help rebuild business ties and ensure stable trade between the two nations.
