Nationwide Survey Prompts Sudden Suspension
South Sudan’s Ministry of Mining suspended all small-scale mining and exploration licenses in Western Bahr el Ghazal, effective 1 November, according to a 30 October order.
Officials say the pause will clear the field for a nationwide geological survey designed to map resources more precisely and guide future concessions.
Mandatory Juba Meeting for License Holders
The ministry also summoned every license holder to Juba’s Pyramid Hotel on 4 November for what it called an “urgent” consultation on the new framework.
In its letter, the ministry stressed attendance was mandatory, underscoring an intention to keep operators “fully informed and compliant”.
Untapped Gold Potential in Western Bahr el Ghazal
Western Bahr el Ghazal hosts documented gold occurrences, yet official production statistics remain scarce, leaving policymakers blind to the province’s true potential.
Most artisanal digging happens around Raja County northwest of Wau, where family syndicates and small firms routinely feed an informal supply chain.
Safety Incidents Reinforce Regulatory Motive
Earlier this year five miners, including two security officers, died after a flooded pit collapsed in Dulu, highlighting the risks embedded in unregulated shafts (Eye Radio).
Commissioner Adison Arkanjelo Musa said the men had been hired to inspect the cave’s stability, only for the walls to give way unexpectedly.
Economic Stakes for Investors and Communities
Analysts read the suspension as a strategic reset, allowing Juba to tighten safety rules, attract larger investors, and boost revenues once clearer data emerges.
For local diggers, however, weeks without formal permits may translate into halted income streams, making the outcome of next week’s meeting critical for community livelihoods.