Sudan’s Return to International Financial Institutions: A Chance to Rebuild What War Destroyed| Sudanow Magazine

Port Sudan (Sudanow) — The World Bank is a major international institution dedicated to supporting developing countries through financing, technical expertise, strategic planning, and capacity building. Its return to Sudan, after years of war and devastation that affected both public and private life, marks a significant step toward building a resilient national economy.

Sudanow explored the implications of Sudan’s renewed engagement with this global institution and interviewed economist Dr. Haitham Mohamed Fathi, who stated:
“The government must strengthen avenues of cooperation with the World Bank in development programs, including support for economic recovery plans, reconstruction, and improvement of essential public services. It is also crucial to identify priority economic needs at this stage.”

He further emphasized the importance of working with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to implement technical assistance programs, improve economic data, and pave the way for the resumption of annual reviews of Sudan’s economic policies.

Dr. Haitham added: “In my view, Sudan’s return to international financial institutions—foremost the World Bank and IMF—represents a pivotal step in the path of economic recovery after more than four years of isolation. The government must facilitate this process and move toward reintegration into the global economic and financial community.”

He highlighted priority projects essential for restoring normal life in currently stable cities, such as electricity provision, water networks, renewable energy, and comprehensive health and education services. These, he noted, are vital for reconstruction, reviving production, and ensuring citizens’ stability.

Dr. Haitham also pointed out that the transitional government had previously implemented World Bank prescriptions hastily—lifting subsidies, liberalizing the prices of basic commodities, particularly fuel, and raising bread prices—without adequate planning.

Nevertheless, cooperation with the World Bank promises significant developmental and economic gains. Through its institutions—the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), which supports middle-income countries, and the International Development Association (IDA), which provides aid to low-income nations—Sudan can access grants and long-term loans to finance major projects. The World Bank’s renewed engagement also aims to evaluate the performance of ongoing projects in Sudan, in coordination with the government, assessing achievements and identifying obstacles.

In conclusion, Sudan now stands at the threshold of a new phase that could evolve into genuine renaissance if financial resources and projects are invested wisely and directed toward stability, reconstruction, and sustainable development. This is a historic opportunity to breathe life into the national economy, rebuild what war has destroyed, and emerge stronger by harnessing the country’s natural and human wealth.

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