Illicit Mining in South Sudan: Civil Society and Experts Call for Transparency and Reform

By Denilson Deneki 

Civil society leaders, government geologists, and policy researchers have voiced urgent concerns regarding illicit gold mining, significant revenue losses, and the lack of community development in South Sudan’s mineral-rich regions. These calls for action were made during a high-level dialogue and report launch held at the African Mineral Development and Investment Support Services (AMDISS) in Juba, under the theme: “Illicit Mining and Revenue Collection Risks in South Sudan.”

Over $50 Million in Unaccounted Gold Revenue

Boboya James Edmond, Secretary General of the Civil Society Coalition of Natural Resources (CSCNR) and the Institute of Social Policy and Research (ISPR), presented a new report focusing on illicit gold mining activities in Budi, Kapoeta East, and Kapoeta South. The findings revealed that over $50 million was generated from mining in a single year—yet none of this revenue was reflected in the national budget.

“We documented hundreds of cases of gender-based violence, deaths resulting from unsafe mining conditions, and sharp declines in agriculture and school attendance,” said Boboya. “The communities suffer while elites profit.”

He further alleged that political elites, security personnel, and foreign actors from Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, China, and South Sudan are fueling unregulated mining activities. This situation risks turning gold into a potential “resource curse,” similar to the country’s oil sector.

Civil Society Demands Accountable Resource Governance

Onak Charles, Chairperson of the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources (CSCN), emphasized the need for transparent and accountable resource management. While South Sudan exports over 40 tons of gold annually, he noted that the contribution of these revenues to the national budget remains unclear.

 “Communities in areas like Bentiu, Budi, Kamuku, and Hiyala see no development from gold revenues. We must demand transparency and ensure natural resources benefit the people—not just a few,” Onak stated.

Supported by Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), the coalition now comprises 55 member organizations working across the country on policy reform, legal advocacy, and public finance monitoring.

Government Recognizes Gaps in Oversight and Mapping

Representing the government, Yoasa Matatio, a geologist at the Ministry of Mining, acknowledged challenges in regulating the sector. He cited weak enforcement, porous borders, and inadequate geological mapping as major obstacles to formalizing the gold trade.

“Many companies claim to be exploration firms but lack the tools or commitment to carry out proper exploration. In Kapoeta, mining remains risky and inconsistent,” Yoasa explained. “We estimate that about 40 tons of gold are lost annually to illegal trade.”

The Ministry is currently collaborating with China on nationwide geological mapping and recommends strengthening border controls and launching community awareness campaigns.

Communities Seek Development, Face Barriers

Speakers highlighted increasing pressure from communities on mining companies to sign Community Development Agreements (CDAs)—even in cases where such agreements are not legally mandated. These demands, coupled with unrealistic expectations before profits are realized, often discourage legitimate exploration efforts.

Yoasa urged civil society organizations and NGOs to educate communities about the mining lifecycle and the differences between exploration and production phases.

 A Shared Call for Justice

Throughout the discussions, a common theme emerged: gold should serve as a blessing, not a curse. Civil society leaders called on the media, international partners, and government institutions to take immediate action—before unregulated mining fuels further instability and economic losses.

 “We cannot repeat the mistakes of the oil era,” concluded Boboya. “It’s time to make mining work for the people.”