Sudan will take up digital payments as it has now joined the United Nation’s Better Than Cash Alliance. The government stated that the move was made to speed up the transition from cash to digital payments.
It also revealed that digital payments will be used for the Sudan Family Support Program, a program that will provide monthly direct digital payments to around 80% of Sudanese families.
The Sudan Family Support Program seeks to boost economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve food security and health throughout the country.
The Better Than Cash Alliance is a UN-based partnership of governments, companies, and international organizations committed to accelerating the transition from cash to digital payments to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Ibrahim Elbadawi, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning said, “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.
“This digital transition will ensure equitable access to resources and government services, and revitalize the private sector, which is central to our efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace and revive the national economy.”
On 30 May 2020, the government of Sudan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) to support the government’s Family Support program that will provide Sudanese families direct cash transfers. This kick-started the process to help families in Sudan cope with the current economic difficulties.
Previously, the Better Than Cash Alliance worked with One Acre Fund, an agriculture non-profit organization, to digitize loan repayments for farmers in Kenya. As is the case with Sudan, the other aim was to improve transparency and efficiency.
Dr. Ruth Goodwin-Groen, Managing Director of the Better Than Cash Alliance said, “The vision of the Government of Sudan to ensure nearly universal digital basic income is truly inspiring!
“Over 30 million 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.”
