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Sudan’s Battle Against Corruption: A Long Road Ahead

In the wake of its third revolution, Sudan has been grappling with the issue of corruption, which has plagued the country for decades. With Transparency International ranking it as one of the ten most corrupt countries in the world, the need to tackle this problem is more pressing than ever.

A Lackluster Effort Prior to the Revolution

Prior to the revolution, the government’s efforts to combat corruption were superficial at best. A formal anti-corruption law was approved in 2016, but it failed to make any significant changes and did not result in a single criminal case being prosecuted.

A New Approach Under the Transitional Government

The new transitional government has made tackling corruption one of its top priorities, with the establishment of the Sudan Empowerment Elimination, Anti-Corruption, and Funds Recovery Committee. The committee has already succeeded in recovering huge sums of money from corrupt officials and has established state-level branches to combat corruption at the local level.

Challenges Remain

However, despite this progress, there is still much work to be done. Kinda Hattar, MENA Regional Advisor at Transparency International, notes that while the revolution changed faces in the administration, it has not yet succeeded in changing the systems that allow corrupt actors to flourish.

A 360-Degree Approach Required

Dismantling corruption in Sudan will require a 360-degree approach, including:

  • Reforming the legal code
  • Strengthening the justice system
  • Other institutions that have been exploited by corrupt actors for decades

It also requires strengthening civic space to allow citizens to hold the government accountable without fear of retribution.

The Center for International Private Enterprise’s Efforts

The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) has been working to promote democracy and combat corruption in Sudan for over a decade. Through its anti-corruption efforts, CIPE has helped local companies adopt higher compliance standards and improve efficiency.

The Sudan Anti-Corruption Resource Center (SARC)

In 2020, CIPE launched the Sudan Anti-Corruption Resource Center (SARC), which aims to serve as an anti-corruption hub that brings together:

  • Journalists
  • Academics
  • Business groups
  • Non-profit organizations

The center provides training and technical support to local civil society groups and has already received significant attention on social media.

CIPE’s Commitment to Combating Corruption

CIPE’s commitment to combating corruption and strengthening civil society in Sudan is unwavering, with plans to continue growing SARC’s staff and expanding its integrity resource library. With the launch of a new Investment Prospectus by Sudan’s Ministry of Investments and International Cooperation, CIPE is poised to play a key role in helping Sudan pivot from its recent revolution to an ethical and democratic future.

The Road Ahead

The road ahead will be long and challenging, but with continued political will and societal support, Sudan can overcome its corrupt past and build a brighter future.