Exclusive Interview: A New Era for Financial Inclusion in Sudan

In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, traditional industries are undergoing fundamental shifts. In Sudan, one of the most significant recent developments in the business landscape is the move by MTN Sudan to establish a dedicated subsidiary for its fintech business. This strategic pivot signals a deep commitment to modernizing financial services and fostering digital inclusion in the country. To understand the vision behind this move, we sat down with Shehab Salih, Managing Director of MTN Sudan, who provided key insights into this bold new venture.

The Move to FinTech Salih explained that the decision to create a dedicated subsidiary was driven by the need for focus and agility. “The Sudanese market is at a critical juncture,” he noted. “While a significant portion of our population is underserved by traditional banking systems, the demand for digital solutions is skyrocketing. To truly meet this need and innovate at the required speed, we needed a dedicated entity—a nimble fintech subsidiary focused solely on financial solutions.” This move follows other significant market activity, such as Zain Group’s plan to pump $800m into its Sudanese unit over the next five years, emphasizing growing investor confidence in Sudan’s digital infrastructure.

A Broad Impact Across Sectors This fintech venture does not exist in a vacuum. Salih emphasized its potential impact across various sectors, including those featured on our cover. The subsidiary’s solutions could play a pivotal role in facilitating the Sesame crop production and exports, supporting farmers with easier access to digital payments, micro-loans, and faster trade settlement. Furthermore, with 249 Startups organizing a forum on investing for the next decade, MTN’s new subsidiary is uniquely positioned to partner with the nascent startup ecosystem, providing them with essential payment gateways and financial services. “We believe a robust fintech platform can underpin growth across the board,” Salih stated. “From supporting the Council of Arab Economic Unity’s food security discussions with digital tools for tracking and transactions, to enabling cross-border trade, perhaps even supporting trade along the proposed new road linking El Fashir and Kufra.“

Market Outlook & Collaboration When asked about competing in this space, especially against other regional players, Salih highlighted collaboration and innovation. He pointed to existing developments, like China building a new electrical substation, and John Deere boosting the private sector, as positive signs of a developing economy. “As the private sector strengthens and more global partners enter the market, the need for efficient, accessible financial tools grows. We see ourselves as an enabler, collaborating with financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and even other fintech providers to build a more comprehensive financial ecosystem for all Sudanese.“

A Vision for the Future As the interview concluded, Salih shared his vision for the immediate future. “In the next 12 to 24 months, Sudanese consumers and businesses can expect a roll-out of products focused on core needs: mobile money services that are more accessible, digital payment solutions for merchants, and a push towards greater interoperability between financial providers. We are not just launching a company; we are aiming to bridge a gap, enabling every citizen to participate more fully in the economy.“

This new subsidiary is more than just a business unit; it represents a commitment to the long-term potential of Sudan, paving the way for a more digital and inclusive financial future.