Kenya rejects Sudan’s accusations of backing RSF meeting
February 19, 2025 (NAIROBI) – Kenya on Wednesday rejected Sudan’s accusations that it is supporting a parallel government and fueling conflict, saying it is committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
Sudan’s foreign ministry Tuesday accused Kenya of hosting a meeting of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied political factions, which it said constituted a “declaration of hostility” and a violation of Sudan’s sovereignty. Khartoum also accused Nairobi of working to divide African nations.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Kenyan foreign ministry said it “continues to closely monitor the evolving political and security situation in the Republic of Sudan.” It expressed concern over the escalating conflict, described as “one of the world’s worst humanitarian and security crises,” and the slow progress in finding a resolution.
Kenya emphasized its history of hosting refugees and facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties, citing the 2002 Machakos Protocol that ended the Sudanese civil war. It said hosting Sudanese refugees, including Tagadum civil society group members, aligns with its international obligations.
“When Kenya offers this space, it is without any ulterior motives,” the statement said. “It is because we believe there is no military solution to political disputes.”
Nairobi noted that Sudanese groups sought solutions through neighbouring countries before, pointing to a January 2024 meeting held in another country. It added that the RSF and Sudanese civilian groups presenting a roadmap in Nairobi is “compatible with Kenya’s role in peace negotiation.”
Kenya reiterated its solidarity with the Sudanese people and its readiness to support efforts towards stability and prosperity in Sudan and the Horn of Africa region through organizations like the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union (AU). It reaffirmed its alignment with the AU’s stance on unconstitutional government changes and its suspension of Sudan.
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On January 3, 2024, President Ruto met with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (“Hemetti”) at the State House in Nairobi. At that time, the RSF appeared to be gaining ground, having taken control of parts of Khartoum, Al-Jazirah state, and the Darfur region. Subsequently, the Sudanese military-led government rejected mediation efforts proposed by an IGAD mechanism chaired by President Ruto.