Artisanal gold mining in Sudan, which intensified over the past six years, has transformed agricultural areas in Abu Hamad, River Nile state, into sites of environmental and health concern. More than 700 mounds of toxic waste, remnants of gold extraction processes using chemicals like cyanide, mercury, or thiourea, are reportedly poisoning the soil, water, and air around the town.
The agricultural foundation of Abu Hamad has been decimated, with floodwaters carrying runoff from mining sites causing increased soil salinity and a significant decline in food production. Farmers report that wheat yields have fallen from 40-60 sacks per acre to 12-18 sacks, and fava bean yields have plummeted from 40-50 sacks per feddan to just three or four. Orange groves are also producing significantly less fruit, with much of it misshapen.
This environmental disaster has escalated into a public health emergency. A 2022 analysis found mercury in 20% of drinking water samples. Local medical records indicate a rise in miscarriages, congenital abnormalities in foetuses, and an increase in kidney failure cases, with the Abu Hamad dialysis centre serving nearly 100 patients. Animals in the region have also reportedly been born without hair or eyes, and some have exhibited unusual behaviour.
Artisanal operations accounted for over 90% of Sudan's gold production in 2024. The gold sector generated approximately $1.8bn in revenue from production and exports last year, producing roughly 75 tonnes of gold. Both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are reportedly involved in controlling mining operations since the war began in April 2023.