Sudan's War for Gold: The Hidden Economy Fueling Three Years of Conflict

As Sudan marks three years of civil war, a powerful economic engine is driving the fighting: gold. The conflict has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions. But control of Sudan's vast gold reserves is a key motive for both the national army and the rival paramilitary force, according to analysis. Africanews spoke to journalist Roula Merhej on the war's anniversary. She explained that gold has become a critical resource for funding the war effort. Each side uses gold revenue to buy weapons and pay fighters. Sudan is Africa's third-largest gold producer. The mines are now mostly controlled by military groups. This direct access to wealth allows the factions to continue fighting independently of international support or formal state budgets. The result is a prolonged war funded by the country's own resources. As long as the gold flows, analysts fear the financial incentive to continue fighting will remain.