A front-loader deposits dirt and crushed rock into a processing machine used to separate gold-bearing material at an artisanal mining site in Dalago Mahas. -

Last updated: 36 minutes ago

Sudan

In the mountains of Dalgo Mahas in northern Sudan, unregulated miners armed with metal detectors search tirelessly for gold, hoping to earn enough to support their families amid deepening economic hardship.

Many miners say soaring fuel prices, electricity cuts and the collapse of agriculture forced them into the dangerous industry. “Agriculture no longer covered expenses, so I turned to mining,” said miner Atta al-Khazin, who left farming after struggling with rising costs.

The mine is one of thousands of small-scale operations across Sudan, where gold mining has become closely linked to the country’s devastating conflict between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, or RSF. According to UN-commissioned experts, large quantities of gold have been smuggled out of the country to finance armed groups controlling mining areas in Darfur and Kordofan.

Despite the risks, many Sudanese say mining remains their only source of income. “When the war broke out, I had no other option,” said miner Zahir Adam.

Sudan produced 70 tons of gold last year, generating nearly $1.8 billion in revenue, according to official figures.

Gold rush survival: Sudanese miners turn to trade amid war

Suggested for you

More Stories

Ghana still welcomes mining investment — Armah-Kofi Buah tells industry

Ghana Gold Board signs refinery agreement with Royal Ghana Gold Limited

GoldBod has signed refinery agreement with Royal Ghana Gold Limited

Senegal parliament speaker resigns, clearing way for Ousmane Sonko to take position

Market swings as oil prices drop on Middle East tension easing

WHO, Africa CDC adopt Ebola response plan as DR Congo steps up hygiene measures

Discussion