Sudan is advancing financial inclusion efforts by introducing a USSD-based banking service that allows users to access essential financial functions without requiring an internet connection. The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Telecommunications in collaboration with the Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (TPRA) and the Central Bank of Sudan.
The service will initially support key banking activities, including person-to-person (P2P) transfers, balance inquiries, and transaction summaries. It is designed to serve populations in areas with limited connectivity, as well as users without smartphones or during periods of network congestion.
By enabling access through basic mobile devices, the initiative aims to expand the reach of digital financial services, support family assistance programs, and strengthen the broader digital finance ecosystem in the country.
The move highlights the continued importance of USSD technology across Africa, particularly in regions where internet penetration remains low. Similar trends have been observed in markets like Nigeria, where USSD remains a critical channel for millions of users.
Sudan’s rollout reflects a strategic push to bridge the digital divide and ensure more inclusive access to banking services through simple, widely accessible mobile technologies.
