Since the start of the Sudanese Civil War in April 2023, Egypt has taken considerable steps to safeguard its national security and sovereignty.
Authorities in Cairo have increased monitoring and troop presence along the 1,276-kilometer border with Sudan, while also addressing security issues along the border with Libya.
A recent increase in illegal mining activity along the border, combined with tales of Sudanese miners trespassing into Egyptian territory, has raised concerns among analysts and officials.
Observers say that these activities are not only raising tensions but also linked to an increase in smuggling and trafficking networks, hampering border enforcement efforts.
“The surge in illegal gold mining activities in the border area has propelled repeated crackdowns by Egyptian army troops there,” Egyptian political analyst Eslam Mansi said to The New Arab.
“Egypt is obliged to beef up security in the area, which is known for its rigid and tough geography,” Mansi added.
The crisis in Sudan is also putting economic and social pressure on Egypt.
Hundreds of thousands of Sudanese have left the turmoil, seeking safety across the border and putting strain on Egypt’s already overburdened public services and resources.
These new arrivals join other displaced persons from across the region who have fled to Egypt for some form of protection.
“Most of those displaced outside Sudan sought refuge in Egypt, knowing that they would be safe in the country,” Sudanese political analyst Osman Merghani told TNA.
“The Egyptians also rolled out the welcome mat for those coming in from Sudan, causing the Sudanese to feel at home,” he added.
While unlawful gold mining has long been a problem in the border region, analysts say the level of activity has increased since the war began.
Attracted by the vast gold reserves in the Nubian region, these mining operations frequently employ Sudanese citizens as well as migrants from other regions of Africa, escalating rivalry and instability in the region.
