Kenya’s Unjustifiable Interference in Sudan: A Grave Violation of International Law and Regional Stability

By: Abdi Jama

Kenya’s continued meddling in Sudan’s internal crisis is an alarming violation of international law and a reckless move that threatens to destabilize the entire East and North Africa regions. As an expert and analyst in security and African political affairs, it is imperative to highlight how Kenya’s involvement contradicts established legal principles, regional stability frameworks, and the sovereignty of nations. The international community, particularly the United Nations (UN), must take a clear stand against Kenya’s unwarranted interference, which is exacerbating Sudan’s crisis rather than fostering peace.

On February 19, 2025, the Government of Kenya, under the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Ministry of Foreign & Diaspora Affairs, released a statement following a conference in Nairobi that sought to address the situation in Sudan. However, instead of adopting a neutral stance that promotes regional stability, Kenya has openly engaged in interference by providing political space and legitimacy to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) rebels, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (commonly known as Hemedti). These rebels have been responsible for war crimes, gross human rights violations, and the destruction of Sudan’s fragile institutions. Kenya’s actions directly undermine the Sudanese government’s legitimate authority and embolden criminal elements that have terrorized the civilian population.

By positioning itself as an external broker in Sudan’s internal affairs, Kenya is disregarding Sudan’s sovereignty and contributing to the deepening instability of an already volatile region. The RSF and its leader, Hemedti, have long been accused of atrocities, including mass killings, ethnic cleansing, and systematic destruction of communities. Instead of standing with the Sudanese government in its fight against these criminals, Kenya has chosen to align itself with non-state actors, further aggravating the crisis and prolonging the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians.

International Law and Sovereignty: Kenya’s Breach of Legal Norms

International law unequivocally upholds the sovereignty of states and strictly prohibits external interference in their internal affairs. The UN Charter, particularly Article 2(4), explicitly prohibits the use of force or intervention in the domestic matters of other states. Similarly, the African Union (AU) Charter emphasizes respect for sovereignty and non-interference, principles that Kenya has blatantly disregarded in its approach to Sudan.

By engaging in Sudan’s internal political struggles, Kenya is not only violating Sudan’s sovereignty but also setting a dangerous precedent that could legitimize external intervention in the affairs of any state within the region. This overreach by Kenya should not go unchallenged, as it could encourage further foreign meddling, fueling instability across Africa.

Kenya’s Actions: Escalating Conflict Instead of Promoting Peace

Rather than aiding Sudan in restoring peace and security, Kenya’s actions are aggravating the crisis. By engaging with non-state actors and emboldening opposition factions, Kenya is undermining the legitimate Sudanese government, which is struggling to maintain national cohesion amid a difficult internal conflict. Such actions do not serve the interests of peace but rather deepen divisions and prolong hostilities.

Moreover, Kenya’s unilateral engagement with certain Sudanese factions contradicts diplomatic norms and established conflict-resolution mechanisms. Sudan requires genuine international support—not selective and biased interventions that further complicate an already fragile situation. Kenya’s approach risks creating more instability not only within Sudan but across the entire region, potentially leading to an escalation of violence and an extended humanitarian crisis.

A Dangerous Precedent for Africa and Beyond

Kenya’s interference in Sudan sets a perilous example for the African continent. If such interventionism is allowed to go unchecked, it could pave the way for other states to justify meddling in the internal affairs of neighboring countries. This threatens the very foundations of national sovereignty and regional stability, key pillars that have long governed African diplomacy.

The AU must urgently reaffirm its commitment to the principle of non-interference and take decisive action against Kenya’s reckless involvement in Sudan. The credibility of African-led conflict resolution mechanisms, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), is at stake. Allowing Kenya’s actions to go unchallenged would undermine the legitimacy of African institutions and erode trust in their ability to foster genuine peace processes.

The Role of the International Community: A Call for Condemnation and Action

The international community, particularly the United Nations, has a duty to uphold international law and condemn Kenya’s unjustifiable interference in Sudan. The UN Security Council must address this violation and take steps to prevent further foreign interference in Sudan’s internal affairs. Diplomatic pressure should be exerted on Kenya to cease its interventionist approach and respect Sudan’s sovereignty.Additionally, Arab and Muslim nations must take a firm stance in defense of Sudan’s territorial integrity. Given Sudan’s historical ties with the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), these bodies must actively oppose Kenya’s actions and rally support for Sudan’s government in its efforts to restore peace and stability.

Conclusion: Kenya’s Actions Must Be Stopped

Kenya’s involvement in Sudan’s internal affairs is not only unjustifiable but also a dangerous violation of international law and African diplomatic principles. Instead of playing a constructive role in peacebuilding, Kenya’s actions are worsening the crisis, prolonging suffering, and threatening regional security. The international community must no longer remain silent.The United Nations, the African Union, and all responsible global actors must take a firm stance against Kenya’s interference, ensuring that Sudan’s sovereignty is protected, and that external meddling is not tolerated. The stakes are too high to ignore. Now is the time for decisive action to uphold international law, safeguard African stability, and support the legitimate government of Sudan in its fight against disorder and terrorism.

About the Author: Abdi Jama is a seasoned researcher, analyst, and expert in security, development, humanitarian efforts and political systems in East Africa. With deep insights into the region’s key challenges, he provides strategic analysis and solutions to drive sustainable development and policy innovation. Contact: abdi.jama@gmail.com