By: Sudan tribune

Sudan is seeking to rebuild its war-shattered mining sector through new agreements with China and Turkey, focusing on advanced exploration technology and geological mapping, Minerals Minister Nour al-Dayem Taha said on Wednesday.

The government and private mining infrastructure in Sudan have suffered extensive looting and destruction since the conflict began in April 2023. Losses across the sector are estimated in the billions of dollars, with the headquarters of the Geological Research Authority of Sudan (GRAS) — the industry’s technical backbone — among the facilities hit.

Addressing a forum of regional mining officials, Taha said a comprehensive national geological survey is a strategic priority for restarting the sector on a modern scientific basis.

“The Geological Research Authority is the fundamental pillar for all the ministry’s institutions,” Taha said. He noted that the body is responsible for producing geological data, identifying mineral resources, and managing national databases.

The minister stated that Sudan has established advanced cooperation with China for geological studies and training. Technical partnerships are also in place with Turkey, while additional memorandums of understanding with other major powers are expected to be signed in the first half of this year.

The partnerships aim to introduce modern exploration techniques, including remote sensing and high-tech geophysical equipment, to replace assets lost during the war.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Sudan’s mining sector has shown resilience. In December, the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company reported gold production of 70 tonnes, the highest level in five years. Last week, the company said first-quarter revenues from artisanal mining exceeded targets by 13%.

However, the war has significantly constrained operations. Ahmed Haroun al-Tom, Director General of GRAS, previously estimated the sector’s total losses at $7 billion. He noted that the authority’s reach has been reduced from 18 states before the war to just six currently active locations.

Sudan ranks as the third-largest mineral producer in Africa. According to GRAS data, approximately 75% of the country’s mineral resources remain unexplored or require detailed evaluation.