In this video, the founder of the Sudan Updates Instagram page, Ameen Mekki – speaking to the @mediastormpod – explains how Sudan’s exploitation by global powers runs deeper than the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary. International involvement has shaped the country’s political landscape for years, as key military figures were legitimised by Western nations such as the UK and also regional powers such as Egypt and the UAE.
This endorsement came even as local protesters, demanding the end of military rule in 2019, were overlooked by the international community. This selective recognition allowed external powers to maintain ties with Sudan’s leadership, prioritising strategic interests over the will of the Sudanese people.
One of Sudan’s most lucrative resource – gold – has also played a crucial role in this exploitation. Sudan is among the top gold producers in Africa, yet much of its wealth is siphoned off through illegal smuggling.
Estimates by Sudan’s Central Bank suggest that up to 70% of the country’s gold is smuggled out, enriching international markets while depriving Sudan of its rightful economic benefits. This covert flow of resources ties directly to the muted global response to Sudan’s struggles, as various powers benefit from the ongoing chaos. Despite its vast natural resources, Sudan remains vulnerable, not because of inherent poverty but due to sustained international exploitation.
Video credit: @mediastormpod (Instagram)
Sources
1. https://www.dabangasudan.org/en/all-news/article/gold-export-bank-of-sudan-announces-stiffer-control-measures
2. https://sudantribune.com/article50086/
3. https://adf-magazine.com/2024/02/smuggled-gold-fuels-war-in-sudan-u-n-says/
4. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/uae-receives-most-africas-smuggled-gold-says-report
5. https://edition.cnn.com/2023/04/26/africa/sudan-generals-west-democratic-transition-intl/index.html
6. https://adf-magazine.com/2022/12/russia-uses-wagner-to-plunder-sudans-gold/
3 Comments
The imperialists have no shame nor dignity. They behave as if they are better than Africa and it is Africa’s wealth that allows them to survive. Imperialists STOP EXPLOITING AFRICA and see how long you can survive. You are plain murderers. Talking about Putin! He is your SUPERIOR! Leave Africa and Africans and let them survive. GET OUT OF SUDAN, DRC, IVORY COAST, THE SAHEL, NIGERIA, SOMALIA ETC.
Russia is smuggling gold out of Sudan as well.
Are Sudanese being looted by foreign forces or is the situation the Sudanese selling their gold to buy weapons to win the internal conflict?
I understand that foreign powers are feeding the conflict but are the actual victims and victimizers Sudanese people themselves?
What I am asking is if today by the power of magic wand the foreign instigators are pushed out would the conflict end?