Sudan’s artisanal or traditional gold mining sector has seen significant expansion amid ongoing economic difficulties and the current civil conflict. Thousands of young people and unemployed individuals have turned to this industry, which now accounts for approximately 80% of the country’s gold production. Mining activities are primarily concentrated in six states.
Production reached over 37 metric tons in the first half of the year, according to official reports. However, regulatory and environmental concerns have been raised, with calls for transforming the sector into a more organized system that could provide greater economic benefits to the nation.
Mohamed Tahir Umar, Director of the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company — the governmental body responsible for regulating the mining sector — explained that mining operations are mainly located in the Northern state, River Nile, Red Sea, Kassala, Gedaref, and Blue Nile states, as well as eastern areas of South Kordofan state, which he described as “safe and promising” for mining activities.
Umar told “Al-Sharq” that the increase in miners directly correlates with the ongoing war. He noted that the government plans to transition to a more structured mining model by establishing small-scale companies and organizing mining clusters in producing states. This approach aims to boost production while reducing disorder.
Despite the high output — which increased by 5 metric tons compared to the same period last year — Umar acknowledged that the figures remain below expectations. He also warned that the rainy season could temporarily reduce production during the second half of the year.
One of the main challenges facing traditional mining is the decentralized nature of gold markets, which fall under local state authorities. This complicates regulation and oversight. Environmental concerns also persist, particularly regarding the unregulated use of chemicals like mercury.
To address these issues, authorities have begun implementing a Geographic Information System (GIS) to monitor illegal mining activities. They have also introduced modern detection equipment and launched awareness campaigns targeting workers in the sector, aiming to reduce environmental damage and protect local communities.
Economic expert Dr. Mohamed Al-Nair emphasized the need for bold decisions to formalize artisanal mining, which could significantly increase economic returns through official channels and export revenues.
Al-Nair told “Al-Sharq” that the rapid growth in the number of miners is a trend that requires attention. He noted that while artisanal mining contributes to foreign currency inflows, its full economic potential remains unrealized without formalization and official export channels.
He explained that gold production could surpass 80 metric tons by year-end if current trends continue. However, he warned of the risks of losing this resource through smuggling and uncontrolled operations. He called for stricter monitoring of foreign presence in mining areas, establishing a gold exchange, and enhancing the role of Khartoum’s refinery for local processing.
A field study conducted by Sudanese university researchers in collaboration with the Supreme Council for the Environment, reviewed by “Al-Sharq”, revealed alarming levels of environmental contamination in traditional mining areas between Atbara and Berber in River Nile state. The pollution stems from the heavy use of mercury in gold extraction processes.
The study, based on comprehensive analyses of soil, water, and plant samples, along with biological tests on local residents, found mercury concentrations exceeding international safety limits — particularly in drinking water. High levels were detected in women and children, accompanied by health symptoms such as poisoning and allergic reactions.
Researchers recommended urgent measures, including relocating mining waste to isolated areas, banning unregulated mining activities near residential and agricultural zones, and strengthening monitoring and awareness mechanisms to prevent further environmental deterioration.
Amid harsh conditions and minimal returns, traditional miner Mohamed Younes from River Nile state shared his experience with “Al-Sharq” after losing his job due to the war. He said, “I came here with hundreds of others searching for a living. We work long hours in difficult conditions, but what we earn is less than 10% of the returns after deducting equipment and transportation costs.”
He added, “Some of us work for months without any significant gain. Others embark on risky desert expeditions in search of gold, undertaking months-long journeys without any form of support or protection.”
— news from Al-Sharq