The Kenyan government has remained silent after the tragic death of a Kenyan pilot in Sudan, fueling concerns about Nairobi’s involvement in the conflict.
Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) shot down a cargo plane at Nyala Airport on May 3, killing veteran Kenyan pilot George Nyamodi and several others, including Kenyans. The plane belonged to Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), suggesting its role in the escalating civil war.
More than a week has passed, yet Kenyan officials have not responded. Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the government’s spokesperson have ignored repeated calls for clarity. Their silence has intensified speculation about Kenya’s role, especially amid claims of secret business dealings with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti.
Reports accuse Kenya of facilitating gold trade with RSF, a militia blamed for widespread atrocities. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua previously claimed the Kenyan government ignored illegal deals possibly funding RSF’s military operations. Sudanese authorities later accused a “regional country” of supporting the group, calling for international intervention.
Nyamodi’s death has shaken colleagues and aviation professionals. Tributes describe him as highly skilled and respected, raising questions about why a Kenyan pilot worked for a foreign militia at war.
Meanwhile, RSF has escalated attacks, reportedly using drones to strike infrastructure in Port Sudan. As fighting worsens, Kenya’s silence is drawing attention beyond its borders.
