At least 11 people were killed and seven others injured after a tragic collapse at the Kersh Al-Feel gold mine in northeastern Sudan’s Red Sea State, according to a statement by the state-run Mineral Resources Company. The incident occurred in the Houeid area, located between the cities of Atbara and Haya. While the exact date of the collapse has not been disclosed, the mining site was previously ordered to shut down due to major safety concerns. Authorities confirmed that the mine had continued operations illegally, prompting outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of mining regulations in the country.

Sudan’s gold mining sector, particularly traditional and artisanal operations, contributes a significant portion of the country’s overall gold production but is plagued by outdated infrastructure, inadequate safety protocols, and a lack of oversight. The Mineral Resources Company revealed that it had warned about the high risks at the Kersh Al-Feel site and suspended its operations earlier. Despite these warnings, mining continued, resulting in the fatal collapse. The agency has reiterated its commitment to strengthening oversight, improving safety regulations, and ensuring that miners follow environmental and operational guidelines to prevent such disasters.

The accident comes amid mounting scrutiny of Sudan’s gold industry, which remains one of the few functioning sectors in the war-torn nation. With an estimated 1.5 million artisanal miners producing around 80 percent of the country’s gold, Sudan recorded 64 tonnes in total gold output in 2024. However, much of the trade flows through the United Arab Emirates, a route that has drawn international criticism due to alleged ties with the ongoing internal conflict involving the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)—accusations that the UAE denies. The collapse highlights the urgent need for structural reforms in Sudan’s mining sector to safeguard lives and stabilize a fragile economy under pressure.