At least 60 killed in gold mine collapse in Sudan's West Kordofan

At least 60 people have been killed following the collapse of several adjoining mining shafts at the al-Zara gold mine in Sudan’s West Kordofan state. The incident occurred in the Fouja area, located northwest of the town of al-Nuhud. While reports indicate that 60 bodies had been retrieved by Wednesday morning, local monitoring groups suggest the total number of dead or missing may exceed 70.

The collapse began on Sunday, according to some reports, while other accounts state the shafts began to fail on Tuesday. The site is characterized by remote, fragile, and sandy terrain, which has significantly hampered recovery efforts. Residents attempting to reach those trapped have been forced to rely on basic tools, as there has been no intervention from specialized rescue teams.

There are conflicting reports regarding the status of those still underground. A local rights group, the Kordofan Observatory, stated that a survivor emerged on Tuesday and reported that other miners remained alive. Consequently, the group has issued an appeal for urgent rescue efforts to reach those who may still be trapped.

Local observers have attributed the high casualty count to a systemic lack of safety procedures and a shortage of adequate rescue equipment at the site. The incident highlights the risks associated with artisanal mining, which serves as a primary method of gold extraction in Sudan.

Sudan is recognized as one of Africa’s largest gold producers, though the industry is largely dominated by artisanal operations. Much of the gold produced through these methods is subsequently smuggled out of the country. In West Kordofan, where the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces maintain control, gold mining remains a key source of revenue.