“Current estimates give a useful baseline, but they do not capture the full scale of what lies underground,” Saleh said in an interview with Sudan Tribune.
He pointed to the country’s extensive rock belts, many of which remain largely unexamined using advanced techniques like remote sensing, deep geophysical scanning, and structured exploratory drilling.
Sudan Gold Production and Export Disparity
This gap reveals structural issues in the sector, including weak regulatory oversight, limited fiscal capture, and challenges in market transparency.
The majority of gold bypassing formal channels represents significant lost revenue and foreign exchange for the government.
Addressing these gaps through formalization of artisanal mining, stronger monitoring, and enforcement could boost Sudan’s revenues, reduce illicit trade, and strengthen its position as a major African gold producer.
Expanded reserves could elevate Sudan’s standing in Africa
If these projections are confirmed, Sudan could climb higher among Africa’s gold-producing nations, challenging established players such as Algeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Mali.
Saleh also highlighted the role of artisanal mining in the country’s growth over the past decade. “Every expansion in search operations has led to new discoveries,” he said. However, he cautioned that unregulated activity carries environmental and health risks, making integration into the formal economy a critical priority.
Legalization and oversight could curb smuggling, increase public revenues, and improve working conditions.
The secretary-general called for a coordinated national strategy for the minerals sector. This would include intensifying exploration in under-studied regions, updating Sudan’s geological database, and inviting international companies to operate under rules that preserve sovereignty and ensure value is captured locally.
With global gold prices at record highs, Sudan’s expanding reserves offer a historic opportunity to boost foreign exchange and strengthen the economy amid ongoing financial challenges.
By confirming and developing these deposits, the country could secure its place as a leading African gold powerhouse and redefine its role in the continent’s broader mineral markets.
