The ongoing relevance of USSD-based transactions has surfaced in Sudan, where the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Telecommunications is set to launch a USSD service enabling citizens to access banking apps without an internet connection.
The initiative, coordinated with the Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (TPRA) and the Central Bank of Sudan, will initially support essential financial operations such as person-to-person (P2P) transfers, balance inquiries, and transaction summaries.
This step aims to broaden access to simplified digital channels, particularly in areas with limited internet connectivity, during periods of high data traffic, or for users without smartphones. The Ministry has indicated that this is part of a broader strategy to foster financial inclusion, support family assistance programs, and create a supportive regulatory and technical environment for digital finance.
The launch underscores the enduring role of USSD in Africa, particularly for reaching populations in rural or low-income areas, echoing similar observations from Nigeria, where USSD remains critical for millions lacking reliable internet or smartphones.
