Sudan Gold Mine Collapse Claims 82 Lives
A collapse at the Al Zaraa gold mine in West Kordofan, Sudan, has killed at least 82 miners and injured 50 others, with many still trapped under rubble. The tragedy underscores the hazardous conditions of Sudan’s unregulated artisanal mining sector, which is a major source of income amid widespread…
By Felo News Desk · Published
A sudden collapse at the Al Zaraa gold mine in West Kordofan, Sudan, on Tuesday has left at least 82 miners dead and 50 injured, according to reports from the Associated Press. Rescue teams, operating with limited equipment, have recovered 82 bodies by the next morning, but dozens of miners remain trapped underground, with their fate uncertain.
What Happened?
The mine’s shafts began to give way as workers were extracting gold using hand tools and rudimentary equipment. The collapse caused a chain reaction, bringing down adjacent shafts and trapping many miners inside. Survivors who emerged from the rubble described a scene of chaos and despair, noting that the lack of heavy machinery made it difficult to clear debris and locate survivors.
Background on Sudan’s Gold Rush
Sudan’s economy has been severely strained by the civil war that erupted in April 2023 between the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). With large portions of the population unemployed, many young Sudanese have turned to artisanal and small‑scale gold mining as a means of survival. The RSF, which controls much of West Kordofan, has been accused of profiting from the gold trade, which is estimated to be worth billions of dollars.
Artisanal mining in Sudan is largely unregulated. Miners work in abandoned or unofficial pits, often using hand tools and hazardous chemicals such as cyanide and mercury to extract gold nuggets. The European Union banned the sale, transfer, and export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan in July, citing their use in the exploitative gold trade. Despite these restrictions, the industry continues to thrive, employing more than two million people according to industry figures.
Impact on the Local Community
The Al Zaraa mine collapse has had a devastating effect on the local community. Families of the deceased and injured are left grieving and uncertain about the fate of those still trapped. The mine’s operators, who are often informal or unlicensed, have faced criticism for failing to maintain safe working conditions. Local authorities have called for a review of mining safety standards and better enforcement of regulations.
Next Steps and Unresolved Questions
Rescue operations are ongoing, but the lack of heavy machinery and proper equipment hampers progress. The RSF, which controls the area, has stated that it is conducting rescue efforts with rudimentary methods, but the number of people still trapped remains unknown. The incident raises questions about the safety of artisanal mining practices in Sudan and the need for stronger oversight and support for miners.
Meanwhile, the broader context of Sudan’s conflict continues to affect the mining sector. The war has pushed nearly 20 million Sudanese into severe hunger, and the gold trade remains a key source of revenue for both the army and the RSF. International sanctions targeting Sudan’s gold trade have been announced, but their effectiveness remains to be seen.
In the coming days, authorities will need to decide whether to temporarily shut down the mine or to implement stricter safety protocols. The international community may also look to provide assistance to improve mining safety and reduce the reliance on hazardous chemicals.
Key facts
- 82 miners died, 50 injured
- Dozens still trapped underground
- Sudan’s artisanal mining is largely unregulated and hazardous
- RSF controls West Kordofan and profits from gold trade
- International sanctions target Sudan’s gold trade
- Need for safer mining practices and better regulation
Why it matters
The collapse exposes the perilous conditions of Sudan’s unregulated gold mining, a sector that fuels the economy amid conflict and unemployment. It underscores the urgent need for safer practices and stronger oversight to protect miners’ lives.
Frequently asked questions
What caused the collapse?
The collapse was triggered by the failure of mine shafts during gold extraction, leading to a chain reaction that brought down adjacent shafts.
How many people are still missing?
The exact number remains unknown; rescue teams report that dozens are still trapped underground.
What chemicals are used in Sudanese artisanal mining?
Cyanide and mercury are commonly used to extract gold, posing serious health risks.
Are there any safety regulations in place?
Regulations exist but are poorly enforced; the industry is largely unregulated.
What is the RSF’s role?
The RSF controls the area and is accused of profiting from the gold trade.
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Sudan Gold Mine Collapse Kills 82, Injures 50 as Dozens Remain Trapped in West Kordofan”
