Tensions rise as Kenya plans second RSF meeting

By Newsflash Writer

Diplomatic tensions between Kenya and Sudan are set to escalate following reports that Nairobi will host a second meeting involving Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel faction accused of committing atrocities during the ongoing conflict.

On Saturday, 12 April, Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a strongly worded statement condemning Kenya’s role, accusing it of backing the RSF, which the Sudanese government has labeled a “terrorist militia.”

“The Kenyan government’s continued support for this militia and its willingness to harbor its activities reflects a clear disregard for international legitimacy and the African Union Peace and Security Council,” read the statement.

Sudan warned that Kenya’s actions pose a serious threat to regional peace, African sovereignty, and social stability.

Khartoum also referenced a similar meeting held in February, which it claims was organized by the Kenyan presidency to promote a so-called “parallel government” for the RSF and its allies. According to the Sudanese government, this attempt was widely condemned by the international community.

In its statement, Sudan urged the international community to denounce what it called “irresponsible conduct” that goes against international law, the UN Charter, and the African Union’s foundational principles.

Kenya reaffirms neutrality amid regional peace push

Despite Sudan’s objections, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is set to attend the London-Sudan Conference at Lancaster House on Tuesday, coinciding with the second anniversary of Sudan’s civil war.

Mudavadi — who also oversees Kenya’s Foreign Affairs docket — was invited by the UK government and will present Kenya’s stance on peace and security in the Greater Horn of Africa, with a focus on Sudan.

According to his office, Kenya has engaged all major Sudanese stakeholders since the conflict began — including leaders from both the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, civil society groups, political parties, and armed movements — in a bid to help end the war through dialogue.

Mudavadi will reaffirm Kenya’s support for a united Sudan and a Sudanese-led peace process, while stressing that external actors should play only a supportive role. He will also reiterate Kenya’s opposition to military solutions for political disputes.

Kenya is expected to advocate for peace efforts led by African institutions such as IGAD, the African Union, the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Mudavadi will speak out against “forum shopping,” where conflict parties seek favorable platforms that serve their own interests.

The London meeting, organized by the UK, EU, Germany, and France, will also focus on addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The UN aims to mobilize support for over 20 million people in need of aid, and Kenya has pledged $2 million towards these efforts.

However, Sudan has objected to the conference altogether, claiming it was not invited. In a letter to UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Khartoum criticized the inclusion of Kenya, Chad, and the UAE — countries it accuses of supporting the RSF against Sudan’s national army.

As Kenya continues to position itself as a regional mediator, the ongoing dispute with Sudan highlights the delicate balance it must strike between diplomacy and its peace-building ambitions in the region.