KHARTOUM, July 16 (Xinhua) -- Sudan on Thursday launched a geological survey project to update the country's mineral map, aiming to diversify its mining sector beyond gold and support post-war economic recovery.
Speaking at the launching ceremony in Atbara, River Nile State, Minister of Minerals Nour Al-Daim Taha said the survey will provide accurate geological data to guide planning and boost mining investment.
Mohamed Al-Taher Mohamed Abdel Aziz, director of the General Authority for Geological Research office of the state, said Sudan is working to cut its gold reliance by shifting focus to industrial and energy minerals amid rising global demand.
"Gold alone is no longer enough to build a strong mining economy, making it necessary to reorganize the sector's priorities," Abdel Aziz told Xinhua.
The goal is to shift from raw material exports to domestic processing that increases value addition, creates jobs, and strengthens the sector's contribution to the economy, he said.
According to Sudan's Ministry of Minerals, the country hosts a wide array of mineral resources, such as gold, iron, chromium, copper, silver, and gypsum.
The move comes as Sudan's mining sector has suffered significant losses since the internal conflict that erupted in April 2023.
