Sun Jun 29 22:05:40 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A traditional gold mine in northeastern Sudan collapsed, killing 11 miners and injuring seven others. The incident occurred in an area controlled by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) amidst the ongoing civil war, which is fueled in part by the country’s gold industry. The Sudanese Mineral Resources Company (SMRC) had previously suspended operations at the mine due to safety concerns. Sudan’s gold trade, largely funneled through the United Arab Emirates, contributes to the war effort. Artisanal mining, which lacks safety measures, is common in Sudan, leading to frequent mining accidents. The conflict has exacerbated Sudan’s economic woes and caused widespread displacement.
**News Article:**
**Deadly Mine Collapse Kills 11 in War-Torn Sudan**
Howeid, Sudan – A traditional gold mine in Sudan’s Red Sea state collapsed over the weekend, killing 11 miners and injuring seven, the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company (SMRC) confirmed Sunday. The incident occurred at the Kirsh al-Fil mine in the remote Howeid area, controlled by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), highlighting the dangers faced by miners amidst the country’s ongoing civil war.
The SMRC stated they had previously suspended operations at the mine due to safety concerns, issuing warnings about the “great risk to life.” The injured miners have been transferred to a local hospital.
Sudan’s gold industry is a key source of funding for both sides in the conflict between the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023. Much of the gold trade is reportedly channeled through the United Arab Emirates.
Artisanal mining, prevalent throughout Sudan, often lacks adequate safety measures and utilizes hazardous chemicals. Mining collapses are common, with similar incidents occurring in 2023 and 2021, claiming 14 and 38 lives respectively.
The ongoing conflict has devastated Sudan’s economy and led to a major humanitarian crisis, with over 13 million people displaced. The fighting has also disrupted the gold mining industry, with reports indicating increased smuggling of gold to neighboring countries.