In Abu Hamad, located next to the Nile, there used to be lush gardens and fertile farms that produced dates, citrus fruits, and grains for the eastern cities of Sudan, including Khartoum and Port Sudan. But today, these lands have taken on a different appearance. Trees have been cut down and agricultural lands cleared, replaced by shops and commercial sites.
Damage from Gold Extraction
Around the city of Abu Hamad, there are over 700 gray waste hills that severely pollute the soil, water, and air. These hills are toxic remnants of artisanal gold extraction, which began around 2008 and has intensified in the past six years.
This gold extraction boom, driven by war and poverty, has not only destroyed fertile lands but has also exacerbated a public health crisis. The chemicals used in this process have directly impacted the soil and water, causing health problems for the community.
A Dark Future for Sudanese Agriculture
With this trend continuing, it seems that Sudan is on the verge of losing one of its most important food resources. Agriculture, which was once the economic foundation of this country, is gradually being forgotten, leaving only the remnants of toxic waste. If this situation persists, the people of Sudan will not only be deprived of access to food but their health will also be at risk.
