Peacemaker or Peacebreaker? Why Kenya’s Good Neighbour Reputation is Marred

Peacemaker or Peacebreaker? Why Kenya’s Good Neighbour Reputation is Marred

Kenya’s Involvement in Sudan’s Political Divide

Kenya has long been regarded as a peacemaker in regional affairs, but recent diplomatic moves have called that reputation into question. In February, a gathering in Nairobi saw Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied politicians form a parallel government, triggering backlash from Sudan’s ruling military faction, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The Sudanese government accused Kenya of siding with the RSF, calling it a “rogue state.”

The RSF’s move to sign the “Sudan Founding Charter” in Nairobi further fueled tensions, suggesting a potential division of Sudan. The United Nations has previously accused the RSF of war crimes in Darfur, and the U.S. has even declared its actions as genocide. Kenyan officials defended their role, claiming neutrality and emphasizing their commitment to peace, but many Sudanese analysts remain skeptical. Critics argue that allowing such a meeting in Nairobi legitimized the RSF’s actions and further damaged Kenya’s diplomatic standing.

Economic and Political Factors Influencing Kenya’s Position

Kenya’s alleged partiality in the Sudanese conflict has led analysts to question President William Ruto’s motivations. Some point to his personal ties with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo and his deputy, who was even part of Ruto’s entourage on a state visit to South Sudan. Others believe that economic interests play a role, particularly Kenya’s growing ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has been accused of supporting the RSF.

In January, Kenya signed a major economic deal with the UAE, securing a $1.5 billion loan to help cover budget deficits. The timing of the deal raised concerns, as it coincided with Kenya’s increased engagement with RSF figures. Observers argue that Kenya’s diplomatic moves are influenced by financial incentives rather than purely peacemaking intentions.

Kenya’s Dispute with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Kenya’s regional diplomacy also faces scrutiny regarding its involvement with rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In December 2023, Nairobi hosted leaders of the M23 rebel group, which has been at war with the Congolese government. The meeting angered DRC officials, who had expected Kenya to support peacekeeping efforts instead of engaging with rebel factions.

The DRC’s President, Félix Tshisekedi, had already expressed dissatisfaction with the Kenyan-led peacekeeping mission deployed in eastern Congo. Kinshasa accused the East African Community (EAC) force, led by Kenya, of “cohabiting” with M23 rebels instead of actively fighting them. Protests erupted across the DRC, leading to the withdrawal of the EAC forces.

Kenya’s Defense Against Criticism

President Ruto has defended Kenya’s engagement with rebel groups, insisting that Nairobi remains committed to peace. Responding to demands from the DRC to arrest M23 leaders, Ruto stated that Kenya is a democracy and does not imprison people merely for making political statements. However, many Congolese see this stance as an excuse for harboring militants who have committed atrocities.

Analysts argue that Kenya’s involvement in Sudan and the DRC represents a significant shift in its foreign policy. Instead of acting as a neutral mediator, Kenya is increasingly viewed as taking sides in conflicts. This shift has drawn condemnation from regional governments and has led to a decline in Kenya’s once-strong reputation as a peace broker.

Kenya’s Changing Diplomatic Role

Historically, Kenya played a key role in peace efforts across East Africa. The country mediated talks that helped end conflicts in Somalia and Sudan, culminating in the formation of South Sudan in 2011. However, under Ruto’s leadership, Kenya’s foreign policy appears more self-serving, prioritizing political and economic gains over impartial diplomacy.

Internal instability within Kenya has further weakened its diplomatic image. Protests erupted in 2023 over tax increases, and violent police crackdowns led to multiple deaths. As Kenya struggles with domestic tensions, its ability to act as a stabilizing force in the region is increasingly questioned.

A Declining Reputation for Kenya?

Kenya’s actions in Sudan and the DRC have significantly impacted its reputation. While the government insists it is working towards peace, many observers see these moves as strategic alignments that favor certain factions. Whether Kenya can restore its image as a neutral mediator remains uncertain, but for now, its diplomatic choices continue to spark controversy.

Kenya’s involvement in regional conflicts has drawn criticism, with accusations of partisanship affecting its once-strong reputation as a peace broker.