Finance Minister: From the Battlefield to the Economic Front

Port Sudan – Sudanhorizon – Talal Ismail
From leading the armed forces and joint security units in the Battle of Dignity against the Rapid Support Forces militia to spearheading the war economy and reconstruction efforts, Sudan’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Dr Gibril Ibrahim, is now engaged on multiple fronts. Against this backdrop, the minister presented his vision in a press conference on Monday evening in Port Sudan, attended by Minister of Culture and Information Khalid Ali Al-Iysir.
Dr Gibril told journalists:
“We honour the martyrs of the Battle of Dignity. Signs of victory are emerging, and we had hoped that Khartoum would be completely cleared of the militia by the end of this month. Things are progressing excellently.”
On the economic front, he added:
“By the grace of God, we are moving forward successfully. The country is relatively stable, and we are already planning for post-war reconstruction. We have developed a comprehensive vision.”
The minister revealed that a specialized committee has finalized a detailed reconstruction plan.
“We have moved from theoretical planning to execution. We want a clear and structured vision for rebuilding Sudan after the militia war. We are preparing for a major economic revival, God willing,” he said.
He emphasized the focus on infrastructure and human development in the reconstruction report, adding:
“We have a series of upcoming meetings with regional and international financial institutions. In May, we will present our projects at a conference in Kuwait, followed by meetings in Washington with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).”
A Reconstruction Commission and Saudi Delegation
Dr. Gibril announced the formation of a Reconstruction Commission for the next phase. Additionally, a Saudi delegation arrived in Port Sudan on Tuesday to discuss food aid and the transition from humanitarian relief to reconstruction efforts.
The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to clear and sanitize Khartoum and restore essential services such as water, electricity, and roads. He acknowledged that some donor-funded projects had been suspended but stressed the government’s commitment to completing them.
On the economic front, he noted currency stability and the establishment of a specialized committee for reconstruction projects. He also emphasized the importance of digital financial transactions in reducing tax evasion and improving financial oversight.
New Gold Export Markets
Dr Gibril disclosed government plans to expand gold exports to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and Oman.
“Eighty percent of Sudan’s gold is produced by private companies that handle its marketing,” he said.
He acknowledged that the war had delayed the launch of Sudan’s gold exchange, but the government is working to attract investors to the newly targeted markets.
He also confirmed that the government had seized control of mines previously operated by the militia, particularly in Singo, South Darfur, where gold smuggling had been rampant.
Mobile Money Transfers via SMS
The minister revealed that telecom companies have promised to enable money transfers via SMS (without the internet) by the end of April. One company is already prepared to launch the service.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to digital transformation, stating:
“We have made significant progress in adopting e-governance. Despite challenges, the process will continue gradually, and we will see rapid results.”
The government plans to promote Sudan’s reconstruction efforts in the coming month, following the recapture of previously militia-held areas.
Dr. Gibril also highlighted continued economic improvements, citing reduced cash shortages and the increasing use of digital payment applications to facilitate transactions.
Media Warfare and Disinformation
Minister of Culture and Information Khalid Aleiser praised the Sudanese media for countering foreign-backed disinformation campaigns aimed at tarnishing Sudan’s image.
“Sudan is facing a targeted media assault, with propaganda rooms funded by countries that do not wish to see Sudan stable, secure, or victorious in the Battle of Dignity,” he said.
Aleiser urged Sudanese media to defend the country’s reputation, emphasizing the government’s readiness to support media efforts against disinformation.
“We need all Sudanese to play their national role in these critical and historic times,” he added.
Formation of a New Government
Regarding the formation of a new government, Aleiser clarified that it is contingent on the approval of the constitutional document, a key step before appointing a new prime minister.

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