The Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue a violent struggle for control of Sudan and its gold reserves [1, 2].
This conflict has devolved into a humanitarian catastrophe, displacing millions and destabilizing Northeast Africa through a cycle of resource-driven warfare.
The war began on April 15, 2023 [3]. Since then, at least 150,000 people have died [4]. The scale of the displacement is equally severe, with approximately 14 million people forced from their homes [4].
Fighting has centered around key urban hubs, including the cities of Al-Obeid, Al-Faschir, and Al-Juneina [1, 5]. The conflict is driven by a power struggle between the regular military and the paramilitary RSF, which is funded by the sale of gold from dozens of mines located across the country [1, 2].
"Gold has long become a fuel for the war," said Ramin Sina, an ARD correspondent [1].
International observers have noted the role of foreign influence in sustaining the violence. Hoffmann said that if weapon deliveries from the Emirates were to stop, a repeat of the genocidal violence seen in Al-Faschir in 2025 would not be possible [6].
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the signs of these atrocities are unmistakable [7].
As the war enters its fourth year, the control of gold mines remains the primary objective for both factions, ensuring that the financial means to continue the fighting remain available [1, 2].
“"Gold has long become a fuel for the war."”
The integration of natural resource extraction into the funding of paramilitary forces creates a self-sustaining war economy. Because the RSF and the regular army rely on gold mines to finance their operations, the incentive for a diplomatic ceasefire is diminished as long as these assets provide a steady stream of revenue. The involvement of external suppliers further complicates peace efforts, linking Sudan's internal stability to international arms trade and gold markets.
