Ruto and Idris held talks in Harare as Sudan lifted its ban on Kenyan tea.
President William Ruto says Sudan has reopened its market to Kenyan tea following talks with Prime Minister Kamil Idris in Harare.
Sudan has lifted its 20-month ban on Kenyan tea imports following talks between President William Ruto and Prime Minister Kamil Idris. The decision reopens an important export market for Kenyan traders.
Ruto announced the move after meeting Idris in Harare, Zimbabwe. Their discussions took place on the sidelines of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) summit.
The restriction had kept Kenyan tea exporters out of the Sudanese market for nearly two years. It also disrupted trade and limited business opportunities for local traders and producers.
Kenyan tea imports regain access to Sudan
Ruto welcomed Sudan’s decision, saying renewed market access would restore opportunities for exporters. He also said the move would support tea farmers and their families, whose livelihoods depend on the sector.
Following the prolonged interruption, Kenyan traders can now pursue renewed business with Sudanese buyers. The reopening could also boost export earnings from tea, one of Kenya’s leading agricultural commodities.
Tea remains a major source of foreign exchange for Kenya. In addition, its production, processing and marketing support millions of livelihoods across the country.
Beyond the immediate trade benefits, Ruto described the decision as a result of dialogue and constructive diplomacy. He said Kenya looked forward to stronger bilateral relations and expanded trade with Sudan. He also expressed interest in working together for regional peace, stability and shared prosperity.
