By: Sudan tribune

Sudan’s Ministry of Minerals announced arrangements for the return of Qatari mining companies and the resolution of investment challenges as part of a government drive to revitalize foreign investment in the sector.

The mining sector remains a primary economic pillar for the national treasury, attracting continued international interest despite the country’s exceptional circumstances.

Minister of Minerals Nor Al-Daeim Taha emphasized that the government is prioritizing Qatari firms, reflecting Khartoum’s broader strategy to restart foreign capital inflows.

During a meeting on Wednesday with Qatar’s Ambassador to Sudan, Mohammed Ibrahim al-Sada, and a delegation from Qatar Mining, Taha described relations between the two nations as “strategic.” He noted that Doha has remained a supportive partner to Sudan throughout various crises.

The minister committed to resolving obstacles facing foreign mining companies and revealed a new strategy to transition from artisanal to organized mining to increase production efficiency. Taha added that international firms are showing growing interest in entering the Sudanese market.

Suliman Ahmed Hamed, acting Director General of the Geological Research Authority, confirmed the authority’s readiness to facilitate Qatari investments and provide a conducive environment for full-scale operations.

Ambassador al-Sada stated that Qatari companies, led by Qatar Mining, are prepared to open a “new chapter” in Sudan. He highlighted the significant role the company has played over the past years and its commitment to future investments.

Hamad al-Athba, CEO of Qatar Mining, announced that the company, which has operated in Sudan since 2012, has made substantial progress in its copper project. He estimated the project’s investment value at $800 million, citing “promising” results. Al-Athba added that the company also plans to venture into small-scale mining and expects an imminent return to operations.

Mohammed Taher Omer, Director General of the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company, urged Qatar Mining to resume operations promptly, noting that its concessions are located in safe, stable states.

Omer revealed that foreign companies from Morocco, Jordan, Russia, and China continue to operate in the sector, signaling international confidence despite current challenges.

Qatari investments in Sudan are estimated between $1.7 billion and $2 billion, spanning 60 projects in agriculture, banking, real estate, and minerals. Qatar Mining specifically holds seven exploration blocks for gold. These investments are largely concentrated in Khartoum, Northern, and River Nile states.