UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ Special Representative for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto, has endorsed Kenya’s ongoing involvement in initiatives to resolve the Sudanese conflict.
This defense comes despite assertions from Sudan’s military command that Nairobi has shown favoritism toward the Rapid Support Forces, who were hosted in the Kenyan capital last February.
In a Helsinki interview, Haavisto recognized the increasing debate around Kenya’s participation in Sudan peace mediation but maintained that both Nairobi and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development could still make valuable contributions to negotiation processes.
The statements follow persistent criticism from Sudanese Armed Forces commander General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who has previously suggested that President William Ruto’s government maintains sympathies for the RSF and enabled gatherings associated with the paramilitary organization in Nairobi.
These tensions have created challenges for the Igad-facilitated mediation, with Sudan at one time voicing concerns about Kenya’s involvement.
Nevertheless, Haavisto indicated that Kenya continues to serve as a significant diplomatic and operational center for Sudanese political figures, refugees, and peace initiatives.
“I believe Igad and these nations can certainly contribute positively to the peace process,” he stated.
The Finnish diplomat disclosed that he had conducted multiple meetings in Nairobi with Sudanese political representatives and armed factions, including leaders from the Sudan Liberation Movement.
Haavisto also highlighted that Kenya and South Sudan continue to accommodate substantial populations of Sudanese refugees and political figures displaced by the ongoing war.
The UN representative further emphasized that neighboring nations must remain engaged in the peace process due to the regional consequences of the conflict, including refugee movements, security threats, and cross-border instability.
His comments are expected to reignite discussions about Kenya’s diplomatic role in the region and Ruto’s position in the Sudan crisis, particularly as Nairobi continues to establish itself as a key mediator in African disputes.
Below are excerpts from the interview.
Q: The United States and the global community have consistently indicated that the Sudan conflict has been exacerbated by foreign interference. What part are neighboring countries playing?
Neighboring nations are fulfilling a crucial function. On one hand, they are affected by the conflict as they bear substantial refugee populations. On the other hand, these countries may also serve as channels for illicit activities, including weapons trafficking or unlawful commerce. This is why it’s essential that neighboring countries participate in the peace negotiations and be part of the resolution.
Q: Reports have implicated Kenya and the United Arab Emirates in supporting the RSF. How do you address these accusations?
We rely on reports from UN investigative teams and other trustworthy sources. Regarding Igad, I maintain regular communication with its executive secretary. Kenya and South Sudan have historically played significant roles in Sudan peace initiatives and can continue to make constructive contributions.
Both Kenya and South Sudan are hosting large numbers of Sudanese refugees and political representatives. I have interacted with various Sudanese groups in Nairobi, including Abdelaziz al-Hilu and Abdel Wahid al-Nur from the Sudan Liberation Movement.
Q: Do you possess information about foreign arms trafficking into Sudan?
We monitor media reports and intelligence from governments and other sources, but I cannot provide specifics as we are recipients of information rather than investigators ourselves. Other UN entities oversee matters such as the Darfur arms embargo and atrocities committed during the conflict.
Q: The Quartet has occasionally faced bias accusations from both sides. Should it be expanded?
What I tell Quartet members is that they represent powers capable of guaranteeing Sudan’s future security frameworks. From the UN standpoint, when the Quartet and Quintet collaborate effectively, it becomes more feasible to advance the peace process.
Q: Can peace still be achieved if the RSF continues its operations?
A point many parties agree on is that Sudan must transition from military governance to civilian administration. This is why we are attempting to enhance the civilian component through meetings involving civil society and political groups.
I have directly communicated with both General Burhan and General Hemedti regarding the necessity of moving toward civilian governance.
Q: Why does the United Nations appear unable to resolve major conflicts today?
The UN can only function effectively when there is a clear Security Council mandate. Having said that, I must defend the UN because there are many highly competent and dedicated individuals working on Sudan. I continue to believe that, eventually, solutions will be found.