Statecraft Thinking: The Road Less Travelled

Abubakar Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim
Those engaged in public service and the affairs of our wounded nation fall into distinct categories:
Some are consumed by daily events, embroiled in debates solely to vindicate their own views—or those of whom they believe represent their aspirations.
Others fixate on the day-to-day narratives of war, seldom pausing to consider its impact on those scorched by its flames, nor its repercussions for national security, social cohesion, or the unity of Sudan’s collective consciousness. Their sole aim is to amplify division rather than temper it, to assert moral purity rather than engage constructively with dissent. These individuals are trapped in their own echo chambers, detached from reality.
Then there are the professionals—doctors, engineers, academics—whose cumulative efforts over the past six or seven years have left indelible marks on fields of expertise and public service. Their contributions to professional development remain unparalleled.
A Rare Convergence
The cultural hall at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies recently hosted a symposium—not the first of its kind, but exceptional. It showcased a model for addressing public issues by bridging the analytical rigour of academics with the policy-driven approach of think tanks. The focus: Sudan’s documentary heritage and archaeological legacy amidst war, and how the machinery of destruction—and those behind it—have ravaged these national and civilisational institutions.
When a think tank fosters such synergy, it connects specialists’ concerns with policymakers—a road few have taken, despite the urgent need for solutions to crises exacerbated by war.
The Hesitation to Think for the State
Political sensitivities often deter professionals from engaging in statecraft thinking, particularly those who feel the current system does not represent their convictions. Yet herein lies a paradox: those who think but refuse to dialogue with executives—whether due to distrust or disdain for their working conditions—produce ideas that remain stuck in abstraction. Worse, when opportunities to implement arise, they may falter, having overlooked practical realities invisible to outsiders. Conversely, those mired in execution often miss broader strategic dimensions, allowing well-intentioned but narrow efforts to spawn future crises.
Meanwhile, the lethargy and negligence plaguing critical ministries—especially during this crisis—must be confronted. When incompetence is compounded by the deliberate sidelining of skilled professionals or the closure of communication channels, it amounts to nothing short of national betrayal. This must be denounced unequivocally. Sudan’s survival demands unified efforts, guided by a holistic vision to hasten the relief its people desperately await.
The Way Forward
Politically, we need a minimal consensus rooted in shared national principles to end this war across every inch of Sudan—through a resolve that prevents relapse. Institutionally, we must restore professional trust by revitalising civil service with ideas, policies, and legislation that shield it from political manipulation.
Gratitude
Special thanks to:
Professor Ahmed Ibrahim Abushouk and Professor Amal Khidr of the Executive Office of the Sudanese University Professors Association in Qatar, for their tireless work on pivotal issues.
Professor Abdelwahab El-Affendi, President of the Doha Institute, for carrying the nation’s burdens.
Her Excellency Minister Buthaina bint Ali Al-Jabr Al-Nuaimi, Qatar’s Minister of Education and Higher Education, whose generosity Sudan will not forget.
The State of Qatar, its leadership and people, for their unwavering solidarity and boundless support in Sudan’s darkest hour. May God preserve your security and prosperity.
This symposium has illuminated a path for statecraft thinking. Let us—the people of Sudan—commit to it, abandoning narrow parochialism and partisanship. Only then can our nation steady itself and take a step forward.

Shortlink: https://sudanhorizon.com/?p=5191