Kenya disassociates itself with ongoing conflict in Sudan

By Newsflash Writer

NAIROBI, April 29, 2025 — The Kenyan government has strongly condemned accusations by Sudan’s SAF administration that place blame on Kenya for the protracted civil conflict in Sudan, which has ravaged the country for over two years.

In a sharply worded press statement released by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Nairobi termed the allegations “baseless” and reaffirmed its unwavering support for peaceful resolution efforts in the war-torn nation.

The controversy stems from a circular distributed by Sudanese authorities to diplomatic and consular missions across several capitals.

The document reportedly accused Kenya of bearing responsibility for Sudan’s ongoing internal crisis and alleged that Nairobi has associated itself with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel group that is one of the main parties to the Sudanese conflict. Kenya has flatly rejected both claims.

Describing the situation in Sudan as a humanitarian catastrophe marked by widespread death, displacement, and suffering, the Ministry’s statement lamented the continued impunity of conflict actors who have pursued narrow interests while ignoring the devastating consequences of their actions. Kenya pointed out that millions have been displaced, and countless others remain cut off from vital humanitarian assistance.

“While the human toll and infrastructure damage are heartbreaking,” the statement read, “the protagonists continue to pursue their narrow interests with complete impunity, leaving thousands dead.”

Kenya defended its record in seeking peace in Sudan, citing its strategic role within the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the broader Eastern African region. According to the Ministry, Nairobi has hosted and engaged with leaders from both sides of the Sudanese conflict in its quest to facilitate dialogue and find a peaceful solution.

Nairobi dismisses claims of rebel support

In response to Sudan’s claims of Kenya’s alleged association with the RSF, the Ministry was unequivocal in its denial, labeling the accusations as unfounded attempts to shift blame. It emphasized that Nairobi’s role has consistently been one of mediation, not partisanship.

The Ministry also addressed recent meetings by Sudanese nationals in Nairobi, during which discussions reportedly took place about the future of Sudan and possible transitional arrangements. Kenya clarified that it merely hosted the dialogue forum and did not endorse its outcomes or support the formation of any alternative Sudanese government-in-exile, contrary to suggestions made by Khartoum.

“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,” the statement asserted.

While Kenya expressed reluctance to engage in what it termed “needless exchanges,” it stressed the importance of setting the record straight. The government called on all parties and international actors to reject “baseless tirades” and instead prioritize constructive engagement.

Looking ahead, Kenya warned that the unresolved conflict in Sudan poses a continued threat to regional and global peace. It urged key stakeholders to intensify efforts toward a negotiated settlement.

“Kenya therefore urges key players to the conflict in Sudan to find a pathway to peaceful resolution and end the bloodletting,” the statement concluded. “Indeed, the International Community has a duty under the UN Charter to protect human life, property and help silence the guns.”

The press statement underscored Kenya’s diplomatic principle of neutrality and its commitment to fostering peace across the Horn of Africa—a position it maintains despite mounting pressure and allegations from Sudanese authorities.