In brief
Despite widespread devastation and hunger affecting millions, the Sudanese gold trade continues to flourish, benefitting military factions and fueling conflict.
As the sun rises over Sudan, a luxury jet arriving in Juba, South Sudan, carries illicit gold worth approximately $25 million. The shipment, managed by a paramilitary group linked to catastrophic ethnic violence in Sudan, highlights a stark contradiction: while war ravages the country, the gold sector is thriving. The ongoing conflict, pitting the military against the Rapid Support Forces, has laid waste to markets in Khartoum and spread fear throughout the Darfur region. 26 million Sudanese are facing severe food insecurity, impacted by a famine described as one of the worst in decades. However, the gold trade remains robust, with production levels now reportedly exceeding those prior to the intensification of hostilities.With rich deposits scattered across Sudan, this illicit gold trade not only fuels the supply of gold to global markets but also financially empowers generals and fighters engaged in the civil war. As war destroys Sudan's economy and public health systems, the prosperous gold rush serves as a painful reminder of the nation’s entrenched struggles amidst ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. The intricate web of smuggling and market transactions continues to operate, indicating that gold, even in times of despair, remains a significant and lucrative commodity.
