Survival amidst Gold Mining and Conflict
A Report from Sudan
by Sara Omer Hamad Mohamed
Sudan is the third-largest gold producer in Africa. However, a big portion of the gold production is believed to be smuggled out of the country, with proceeds often used to fund the ongoing internal conflict. The illegitimate gold trade has also helped establish a relationship between the Sudanese RSF militia and the Russian Wagner Group, with Sudanese gold serving as a funding source for Russian interests, including the war in Ukraine.
The economic and political situation in addition to climate change intensifies the existing challenges faced by women involved in artisanal gold mining in Sudan. Despite their arduous labor, financial returns are minimal. Women workers lack formal recognition and protection as miners, while dealing with various health issues due to the environmental hazards.
Sudan’s gold sector reveals a complex intersection of armed conflict, environmental degradation, and gendered labour exploitation. As warlords and external actors reap profits from illicit gold flows, millions of Sudanese – particularly women – bear the human cost.
Urgent policy reform, environmental safeguards, and protections for vulnerable communities are essential to prevent further suffering and irreversible ecological damage.
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Photo: Women in Mining, Belguwa, Blue Nile, Sudan Copyright: Waad Ebrahim
