As part of its vision to transform the economy, the Republic of Sudan announced on Wednesday a new commitment to accelerate the transition from cash to digital payments.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Dr. Ibrahim Elbadawi.
By joining the United Nations-based Better Cash Alliance, the government commits to increasing financial inclusion and transparency, taking steps to build an economy that benefits all citizens.
Moving from cash to responsible digital payments is central to the government’s economic recovery and reform strategy. In particular, digital payments will be critical to the success of the recently announced Sudan Family Support Programme, which will provide monthly direct digital transfers to around 80 per cent of Sudanese families. The programme seeks to spur economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve food security and health throughout the country.
“Digital payments will improve financial inclusion and transparency throughout Sudan’s vast territory, especially in conflict-affected regions, help stem corruption, and build a more direct link between citizens and the state,” said Elbadawi. “This digital transition will ensure equitable access to resources and government services, and revitalise the private sector, which are central to our efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace and revive the national economy.”
The transition to digital payments is in line with the government’s intention to establish the multi-ministerial Digital Transformation Agency, which will spearhead the modernisation of government services, including the Family Support Programme.
“Joining the digital economy is the natural progression for Sudan, whose young men and women innovatively used technology during the December Revolution to usher in a new era in our nation’s history,” the minister added.
Moving away from cash will help Sudan enhance financial transparency as it re-integrates into the global financial system after some 30 years of financial isolation and economic mismanagement.
By joining the Better Than Cash Alliance, according to said the Managing Director of the Better Than Cash Alliance, Dr. Ruth Goodwin-Groen, Sudan will obtain critical knowledge to navigate its journey towards payment digitisation through exchanges with other countries from Africa, Asia and Latin America.
“The vision of the Government of Sudan to ensure nearly universal digital basic income is truly inspiring! Over 30m Sudanese men and women will benefit from getting government assistance in a speedy, safe and transparent way, giving them new economic opportunities. We celebrate the Government of Sudan’s membership to our Alliance as a clear statement about their commitment to building a dynamic economy that will work for everyone,” Goodwin-Groen stated.
The Government of Sudan will join more than 75 members of the Better Than Cash Alliance, a United Nations-based partnership of governments, companies and international organisations committed to accelerating the transition from cash to digital payments to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
