The Leading State

Fuad Qabbani
When a state rises from setbacks and economic destruction, it must not loosen the reins, nor leave development to chance or allow the private sector to steer it as it pleases. Such an approach often leads to harmful repetition and imitation—mistakes frequently made by those lacking insight and foresight. Therefore, the state must lead development through a carefully studied plan and a clear, well-defined strategy.
I feel reassured as I follow the Ministry of Animal Resources’ work, which reflects creativity and sound thinking. Sudan is indeed one of the largest countries in terms of livestock wealth, with a unique diversity of camels, cattle, sheep, and goats. But why have we failed to benefit from this advantage in the past? Even the projects established previously did not succeed.
Sudan once established a dairy factory in Babanusa with Russian support, and it could have succeeded had the work been properly planned. The first step should have been to improve cattle breeds, as they are low-yielding and weakened by constant movement. Secondly, the nature of the population—reliant on traditional grazing and limited water resources—forces them to engage in seasonal migration, leaving the factory idle during the summer months. With proper planning and prioritisation, success could have been achievable.
Similarly, the meat processing plant in Kosti might have succeeded if livestock breeds had been improved and international markets had been opened. However, marketing remains the greatest obstacle facing all our export resources. Even gum arabic—an exclusive product in which Sudan holds a unique global position—is still marketed through brokers and intermediaries.
The restrictions imposed on us in European and American markets can be overcome through wisdom and sound policy.
The cooperative movement in Sudan once achieved notable success. It established banks, companies, and an active presence in trade and distribution. But where is it now? The state must revive this movement, especially in the absence of sufficient capital. Effective and well-organised cooperation has proven capable of stabilising markets, ensuring the availability of essential goods, and regulating prices.
The Ministry of Communications is also among the institutions that inspire confidence, particularly through its achievements in supporting electronic payments and advancing financial inclusion.
For success, law enforcement and judicial institutions must play their role firmly and decisively. It is leniency and complacency that have brought us to the current situation.
Sudan is rich in bounties and abundant in resources. What is required is simple: to refrain from unjustly consuming people’s wealth, and to uphold sincerity in both word and action.

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