The Central Bank of Sudan and Promoting Financial Inclusion

The Central Bank of Sudan has issued a directive instructing all operating banks to simplify procedures for opening bank accounts. This includes accepting original or photocopies of identification documents, whether valid or expired, as per the bank’s regulations. Banks are required to verify the authenticity of the provided ID documents by accessing the electronic civil registry system.

This initiative aligns with the Central Bank of Sudan’s policies aimed at enhancing financial inclusion, maintaining financial stability, and facilitating the provision of banking services.

What is Financial Inclusion?

Financial inclusion refers to the availability of financial services for all segments of society—both individuals and institutions. It seeks to ensure a seamless banking experience through official financial channels tailored to their financial, social, and health circumstances.

According to the World Bank, financial inclusion is recognized as an enabler for seven of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The G20 has also committed to promoting financial inclusion globally, reaffirming its commitment to implementing the G20’s High-Level Principles for Digital Financial Inclusion.

The Global Rise of Financial Inclusion

The term financial inclusion gained prominence, particularly after the 2008 global financial crisis, which necessitated the development of strategies by international financial institutions to ensure financial stability. Many nations adopted policies to achieve financial inclusion by providing affordable access to financial services and banking products for individuals with limited income. This approach meets their needs, aligns with their financial capabilities, and protects them from financial marginalization.

These policies have significantly impacted the economic and social conditions of individuals, ultimately benefiting the broader economy.

Sudan’s Vision for Financial Inclusion

Sudan aspires to be a leader in digital payments, ushering in a new phase of financial inclusion for its citizens. Financial inclusion is a cornerstone for economic growth, digital economic transformation, and economic reform.

By integrating institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), microenterprises, and low-income individuals working in the informal economy into the formal financial structure, financial inclusion enhances banking services. It also contributes to raising individual income levels and reducing poverty rates, thereby improving living standards.

The World Bank Group considers financial inclusion a critical enabler for eradicating extreme poverty and fostering shared prosperity.

Access to a Transaction Account: A Key Step

Having access to a transaction account is a foundational step toward broader financial services. A transaction account allows individuals to store money, send payments, and receive funds. It also serves as a gateway to other financial services.

Ensuring universal access to transaction accounts remains a priority for the World Bank Group. Its “Universal Financial Access by 2020” initiative concluded in 2020, marking significant progress while highlighting the challenges that remain.

The Importance of Financial Access

Access to financial services simplifies daily life and enables families and businesses to plan for long-term goals and unexpected emergencies. Account holders are more likely to use additional financial services such as credit and insurance. These services can help launch and expand businesses, invest in education or healthcare, manage risks, and overcome financial shocks, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.