SAR CONDEMNS REPORTED CYANIDE CONTAMINATION LINKED TO GOLD-MINING ACTIVITIES IN SOUTH KORDOFAN.

The Sudanese Alliance for Rights (SAR) condemns the reported cyanide contamination linked to gold-mining activities in Talodi, South Kordofan State, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 65 sheep after they drank from a contaminated water source. The incident highlights the serious environmental and public health risks associated with the use of toxic chemicals in gold processing, particularly the potential contamination of water sources and the threat to communities whose livelihoods depend on livestock and agriculture.

The reported incident is not an isolated concern. Media reports over several years have documented community protests and growing concerns about the use of cyanide and other toxic substances in gold processing in South Kordofan, particularly in and around Talodi. These reports have highlighted allegations of water contamination, livestock deaths and the dangers posed by poorly regulated mining activities. The recurrence of these concerns raises questions about the effectiveness of environmental oversight and the failure to address longstanding warnings from affected communities.

These risks take on added significance in the context of Sudan’s ongoing war, in which control over natural resources, including gold, has become an important dimension of the conflict economy. While the reported incident does not establish that cyanide has been deliberately deployed as a weapon of war, the continued exposure of communities to hazardous mining practices amid conflict and weakened institutional oversight risks deepening civilian suffering, undermining livelihoods and threatening access to safe water and a healthy environment.

SAR calls on the Sudanese authorities, particularly the Ministry of Minerals, the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company and the relevant environmental and local authorities in South Kordofan, to urgently investigate the reported contamination through an independent and transparent process. This should include testing affected water sources, soil and grazing areas, and publicly disclosing the findings. Any mining operations found to be using hazardous chemicals in ways that endanger communities and the environment should be suspended until appropriate safeguards are in place.

SAR further calls on the authorities to ensure that affected communities have access to safe water, that contaminated sites are properly assessed and remediated, and that those who have suffered losses receive appropriate remedies. The authorities must strengthen monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations governing gold processing, ensure transparency in mining operations and meaningfully involve affected communities in decisions that affect their health, livelihoods and environment.

The reported contamination demands more than assurances from the authorities. Communities in Talodi need to know whether their water sources are safe, who is responsible for the contamination and what measures will be taken to prevent further harm. The authorities must provide answers and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Sudanese Alliance for Rights (SAR), 

10 November 2026