LONDON, UK – Kenya has called for a stronger, African-led approach to peace building during the London Conference on Sudan held on April 15, 2025, emphasizing the need for regional institutions to take the lead in resolving the ongoing conflict that has gripped Sudan for over two years.
The conference, held at Lancaster Hall and co-chaired by the United Kingdom, the African Union (AU), France, Germany, and the European Union (EU), brought together high-level representatives from various countries, including Canada, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and the United States.
The event also saw contributions from organizations such as the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the League of Arab States (LAS), and the United Nations (UN).
The ongoing crisis in Sudan, which has led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, was at the heart of discussions.
Kenya’s representative underscored the urgency of addressing the crisis, stressing that without a concerted international effort, Sudan could face irreversible damage.
Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, pointed out the historical significance of Lancaster Hall as a site where key negotiations for African independence had taken place and advocated for a return to African-led solutions for the continent’s challenges.
Kenya specifically called for a stronger role for the African Union (AU) and IGAD in the peace process, stressing that regional institutions are best equipped to handle the complexities of the Horn of Africa’s conflicts.
“The undermining of African institutions has delayed vital progress in conflict resolution, and this must change,” Mudavadi remarked.
In addition to political dialogue, Kenya highlighted the critical humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan.
Kenyan officials condemned the use of humanitarian aid as a weapon by warring parties and called for the urgent opening of humanitarian corridors.
Kenya’s own experience in evacuating over 2,000 nationals when the war broke out in 2023 showcased the nation’s commitment to providing immediate relief, but more, Kenya argued, needs to be done.
“Pressure must be exerted on the warring parties to bring them to the negotiating table. A military solution is no longer viable,” said Mudavadi.
With civilians, particularly women and children, bearing the brunt of the violence, participants agreed on the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Kenya also advocated for the creation of safe spaces for dialogue, drawing on its extensive history in peace mediation.
The country has long been a pillar of regional stability, having hosted numerous peace talks for Sudan and other nations in conflict.
“We have provided such spaces before, and we will continue to do so,” Mudavadi affirmed.
Kenya remains deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan and continues to call for a lasting political solution to the conflict.On the sidelines of the London-Sudan Conference at Lancaster House, I held constructive talks with UK Foreign Secretary
Despite the pledges of support from several countries, the conference ended without a unified joint communiqué, a disappointment for Kenya.
However, Mudavadi remained hopeful, urging further collaboration and leadership from regional mechanisms.
“A unified, African-led approach is the key to resolving the Sudan crisis,” he concluded.
The conference underscored the need for urgent and coordinated efforts to address the Sudan conflict, with a clear message that diplomacy and dialogue must replace military escalation for the sake of the millions affected by the ongoing war.
