Financial Inclusion: Why, How, and in Which Direction? (6/6)

As I See

Adel Al-Baz

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I concluded the previous installment of this series—which has turned out to be longer than I initially expected—with the question: What is required from the state to lead the path of financial inclusion and digital transformation in order to achieve the three directions we outlined earlier: economic growth, poverty reduction, and justice?

The answer: We need a comprehensive national strategy for digital transformation, by which we mean a long-term state-adopted plan aimed at transitioning the economy and society from a traditional model to a fully integrated digital one. This would involve the use of digital technology across all sectors—government, education, health, commerce, agriculture, etc.—with citizens playing an active role in this transformation.

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In the paper we reviewed in the second article of this series, Dr. Khalid called for a comprehensive national digital transformation strategy. He proposed that this strategy serve as the official framework embodying the state’s vision and guiding its practices, along with those of all stakeholders, toward a unified goal.

The urgent need for a national digital transformation strategy is evident. It marks a pivotal step toward building a modern state grounded in knowledge and technology, enhancing financial inclusion, and expanding access to essential services.

Here, I aim to offer a simplified vision of the strategy proposed by Dr. Khalid.

Features of the Proposed Strategy:

The strategy aspires to realize: “A prosperous digital Sudan that empowers its citizens with fair and secure access to services, and fosters innovation and growth in an inclusive and sustainable environment.” This vision rests on six foundational pillars:

Governance and Legislation: Updating laws and establishing a National Council for Digital Transformation.

Infrastructure: Expanding internet and energy coverage across the country.

Smart Government Services: Digitizing key sectors such as education, health, and civil registration.

Digital Financial Inclusion: Developing a unified payment platform like “Saddad (SSD)”, while allowing banks and telecom companies to independently develop their own platforms. Also, supporting solutions for non-smartphones (USSD).

Digital Capacity Building: Integrating digital skills into public education and training personnel across all sectors.

Promoting Financial Innovation: Establishing a Fintech Sandbox to support startups in testing their digital solutions within a safe and flexible regulatory environment.

All of this must be backed by political will and the launch of a national strategy seen as a long-term project—not a seasonal initiative.

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To implement this strategy, it is essential to establish a High National Council for Digital Transformation, reporting directly to the Cabinet or Head of State. This council should include representatives from relevant ministries (Finance, Telecommunications, Education, Justice, Energy…), as well as representatives from the private sector and civil society. Its role would be to lead the vision, coordinate efforts, and formulate public policies related to digital transformation.

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Naturally, the state alone cannot carry out these pillars. Implementation requires an effective partnership between the government, private sector, civil society, and international bodies such as the World Bank, the Arab Monetary Fund, and the European Union. It is also crucial to grant youth and the academic community a central role in shaping and realizing this vision on the ground.

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Finally, I would say that digital transformation is not merely a technical project—it is a comprehensive renaissance initiative. The national digital transformation strategy is not just a guiding document, but a tool to reshape the relationship between citizen and state, ensure justice in access to services, and unlock new avenues for economic and social growth.

If we aspire to a Sudan that overcomes its crises and keeps pace with the modern world, then digitization must be the vehicle of this transition—and financial inclusion its broadest gateway.

The story ends.