Is Sudan ready to chat a new political, economic path?

Sudan, a nation with a tumultuous history, is at a critical crossroad as the international community extends invitations for the country to rejoin the global stage. The recent commitments by various countries to clear Sudan's debts have sparked hope for a new beginning, both politically and economically. However, challenges loom large as Sudan navigates through this crucial period of transition. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Analyst and Activist, Hajooj Kuka, shed light on the complexities and contradictions that Sudan faces as it charts a new course. At the heart of Sudan's dilemma lies the lingering presence of the army in the political landscape. Despite the optimistic outlook on debt cancellation and potential investments, the army's continued influence raises concerns among citizens and activists. The army, historically entrenched in power and control, has been a source of conflict and instability within Sudan. The recent protests and tragic incidents involving the army further highlight the deep-rooted complexities that Sudan must address. The delayed handover of power from the military to civilians adds to the skepticism surrounding Sudan's readiness for true economic reform. One of the primary concerns raised by Kuka is the allocation of resources, particularly the staggering 70% of income directed towards the army. This allocation poses a significant hurdle to meaningful economic development, as funds that could otherwise be invested in education, technology, and infrastructure are channeled towards military expenditures. The lack of a clear vision and strong institutions internally further complicates Sudan's path towards economic recovery. While external support and debt cancellation offer a glimmer of hope, the internal challenges remain substantial. The economic landscape in Sudan reflects the profound challenges that the nation faces. With inflation soaring over 300% and shortages of essential commodities and foreign currency reserves, the urgency for economic transformation is evident. Kuka emphasizes the critical need for a paradigm shift towards internal production and skill development. Sudan's overreliance on imports and the inadequacy of its exports underscore the pressing need for revitalizing the economy. However, the real test lies in whether Sudan can break free from its historical reliance on the army and embrace a more diversified and sustainable economic model. As Sudan contemplates its economic future, there are ambitious plans to rehabilitate key sectors such as shipping and aviation. Investments in reviving national carriers like Sudan Airways signal a desire for growth and modernization. Yet, the looming question of whether Sudan will resort to further borrowing post-debt cancellation raises concerns. While borrowing for developmental purposes may be necessary, the potential risks of indebting the nation without the requisite internal capacity and skilled labor warrant caution. In conclusion, Sudan stands at a pivotal juncture with a unique opportunity to carve out a new trajectory for its economy. The challenges of internal governance, military influence, and economic restructuring are formidable but not insurmountable. As Sudan grapples with the complexities of its past and present, the road to economic recovery will require concerted efforts, vision, and resilience. The global spotlight on Sudan's journey towards revitalization underscores the significance of this transformative moment in the nation's history.