Good News for Kenyan Farmers as Sudan Makes Major Announcement – Details

Sudan has lifted its 20-month ban on tea imports from Kenya, reopening an important market for Kenyan exporters after a trade dispute that disrupted business between the two countries.

The decision was formalised through Ministerial Order No. 25 of 2026, signed by Sudan’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Mahasin Ali Yaqoub, on November 8. It took effect immediately and directs authorities to allow Kenyan tea imports.

President William Ruto announced the development on Wednesday, November 11. He said it followed his engagement with Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris during the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa summit in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The restriction was introduced in March 2025, when Sudan suspended imports from Kenya amid strained diplomatic relations. The disagreement followed Kenya’s hosting of meetings involving Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which is fighting the Sudanese army.

The ban affected Kenyan traders and producers who relied on Sudan as a major destination for their tea. The Tea Board of Kenya said exports to the market fell from 20 million kilogrammes to 8.7 million kilogrammes during the restriction period.

The decline also affected earnings, which dropped from KSh4.5 billion to KSh1.93 billion, according to the board. The figures show the impact on a sector that supports farmers, factory workers and other businesses.

The lifting of the ban gives exporters an opportunity to rebuild trade with Sudan and seek buyers for Kenyan tea. It may also help restore demand for tea grades previously sold to the market.

However, the order does not state how much tea Sudan will import or when shipments will arrive. Exporters will be watching for new orders and the commercial arrangements needed to resume deliveries.

The decision marks a step towards improved trade relations between Nairobi and Khartoum.

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