KHARTOUM: 60 killed in Sudan gold mine collapse after a gold mine in southern Sudan collapsed, according to two survivors who spoke to AFP on Wednesday. Several other miners remain missing and are feared to be trapped beneath the rubble.
The collapse occurred at the Al-Zaraa gold mine in West Kordofan, an area where informal and small-scale mining is widespread. The mine shafts began giving way on Tuesday while dozens of miners were working underground. By the following morning, rescuers had recovered around 60 bodies.
One survivor, Khair al-Sayyed Jabara, said miners worked through the night using basic tools in an attempt to locate victims and survivors. He said they were uncertain how many people remained underground and stressed that heavy machinery was needed to remove the rocks and soil more effectively.
60 Killed in Sudan Gold Mine Collapse as More Miners Remain Missing
Another miner, Al-Amin Suleiman, said the mine shafts were positioned close to one another, meaning the collapse of one shaft could trigger the collapse of neighbouring sections. He said dozens of bodies had already been recovered, while other miners were still trapped underground.
Gold mining is an important source of income in Sudan, particularly as the country’s prolonged conflict has severely affected employment opportunities. Since fighting erupted in April 2023 between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the country’s gold trade has also played an important role in financing both sides of the conflict.
Much of Sudan’s gold is produced through artisanal and small-scale mining. Workers frequently operate in abandoned mines or unofficial mining areas with limited safety equipment and basic tools.
The work also exposes miners to hazardous substances. Chemicals such as cyanide are used during gold processing and have been linked to health problems in surrounding communities.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Conflict
A large-scale rescue operation in West Kordofan faces serious challenges because the region is controlled by the RSF. The continuing conflict has restricted access, resources and emergency response capabilities.
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The United Nations has previously warned that control over Sudan’s natural resources, including gold, contributes to the country’s wider war economy.
Sudan remains one of Africa’s major gold-producing countries. However, authorities say a significant portion of the country’s gold is illegally smuggled across its borders before reaching international markets.
The latest Sudan gold mine collapse highlights the dangers faced by thousands of workers involved in informal mining, particularly in areas where safety regulations and emergency services are limited.
