His visit follows the killing of dozens of pro-democracy demonstrators by the security forces this week.

On Thursday, the African Union (AU) suspended Sudan and warned of further action unless power was transferred from the military to a civilian-led transitional authority.

Soldiers from a notorious paramilitary unit, the Rapid Support Forces, accused of carrying out the shootings are still deployed in large numbers across Sudan, reportedly harassing civilians and instilling fear.

The Sudanese health ministry says 61 people died in the violence , but doctors linked to the opposition alliance say more than 100 civilians were shot dead.

Along with Mr Abiy, a representative from Egypt is expected to be in Sudan as well as the AU's peace and security commissioner, Smail Chergui.