Sudan has lifted its 20-month ban on Kenyan tea imports following diplomatic engagement between Nairobi and Khartoum, reopening an important market for Kenyan tea exporters.

The development follows talks between Kenya's President William Ruto and Sudan's Prime Minister, Prof. Kamil Idris, on the sidelines of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government Summit in Zimbabwe's capital Harare.

President Ruto welcomed the decision on Wednesday, describing it as a significant step towards restoring trade opportunities for its tea exporters and supporting the livelihoods of farmers and their families.

The Kenyan leader added that the breakthrough demonstrates the value of dialogue and constructive diplomacy in resolving trade-related challenges and strengthening bilateral relations.

Kenya also expressed optimism about deepening its relationship with Sudan, expanding trade cooperation, and working together to promote peace, stability and shared prosperity across the region.