Sudan’s government announced the initiation of a currency exchange program in six states, set to begin on December 10. The program aims to address economic instability stemming from the ongoing conflict.
In November, the Central Bank of Sudan revealed plans to introduce a new 1,000 Sudanese pound note. However, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), engaged in a conflict with the Sudanese army since April, criticized the move, labeling it as a step toward national division.
Culture and Information Minister Khalid al-A’asir, speaking after the High Committee for Currency Exchange meeting, confirmed that the exchange will occur in the states of Red Sea, Kassala, Gedaref, River Nile, Northern, and Blue Nile.
“The committee has ensured all technical and security preparations are complete to commence the currency exchange process from December 10 through December 23,” said al-A’asir.
The process will involve bank deposits, and citizens are encouraged to open bank accounts. The central bank highlighted the necessity of the new currency to safeguard the national currency, stabilize the exchange rate, and mitigate the effects of the war, which included the looting of the central bank headquarters and the Sudanese Currency Printing Company in Khartoum.
Al-A’asir emphasized the importance of electronic payments, noting that cash withdrawals will be capped at 200,000 pounds per day per customer. He also announced that new directives will mandate all public and private institutions to accept electronic payment methods.
“This initiative is critical to protecting Sudan’s national security and economic stability,” al-A’asir stated.
