This working paper reports on the exploratory phase of ESRC-funded research into the effects of digitalising food assistance in Sudan. The main question addressed is: to what extent have food assistance and social welfare practices been digitalised, and why? What are the key organisations, authorities and businesses involved? We also identify some political economy effects, and build on earlier studies from Sudan and elsewhere. The paper presents a literature review, observations, and findings from 32 interviews, some carried out remotely by the two authors, others by researchers in Darfur, Al-Gezira, and Kassala. Qualitative methods were used and adapted for the current situation in Sudan.