Over 60 Dead in Catastrophic Collapse at Gold Mine: Tragic Incident Unfolds

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By : Lowell Hagan

Published on: September 16, 2026

In a tragic event that underscores the perilous nature of unregulated mining practices, a gold mine in Sudan’s West-Kordofan state recently collapsed, resulting in the death of at least 60 miners. This catastrophe highlights the ongoing risks faced by those working within the informal mining sector in Sudan, a country that is among Africa’s top gold producers.

Under the Surface: The Details of the Disaster

Survivors from the incident reported to AFP that several of their colleagues are still missing, feared to be trapped under debris or within the labyrinth of mine tunnels. The mine’s location in the southwest of Sudan is significant, as this area is controlled by the paramilitary RSF-Miliz, which is currently engaged in conflict with the national army.

Collapsed mine entrance with rubble and anonymous rescuers at distance
Rescuers and rubble at the site of an informal gold mine collapse.

The region’s geopolitical instability exacerbates the dangers of mining operations. Gold mining and smuggling are vital for financing the import of arms for both sides of the conflict, further complicating the situation.

Sudan’s Gold: A Double-Edged Sword

Despite the risks, the lure of gold continues to drive economic activity in Sudan. The country extracted approximately 70 tonnes of gold last year, with the largest reserves located in the northern and southwestern regions. This gold often ends up in the United Arab Emirates, where it is further processed and then distributed to markets in India, Hong Kong, and Switzerland.

However, many of the mining operations are informal, lacking basic safety measures and exposing miners to great risks. This recent tragedy is a grim reminder of the urgent need for regulatory reforms in the sector.

For more detailed coverage of this tragic event, listen to the special report available on ARD’s audio platform, highlighting the personal stories of those affected and the broader socio-economic implications for Sudan.

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