Talodi, November 10 (Darfur24)
The deaths of 65 sheep in the Talodi area of South Kordofan State have renewed concerns over the environmental and health risks associated with the use of cyanide in artisanal gold mining, amid accusations that government authorities and local administrations have failed to protect communities, livestock and the environment from toxic chemicals.
Social media activists circulated photos and videos showing several dead sheep, which they said were found near mining sites in Qadir.
In a statement, the Anti-Cyanide Committee in Qadir Province said a resident, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Hamdan, had lost 65 sheep at the Bashair mine, east of the Al-Taqoula mine in the Talodi area, after the animals were exposed to highly toxic cyanide.
The committee said the Al-Taqoula area had also recorded human deaths and the loss of several cattle over the past year. It attributed the incidents to severe diarrhoea caused by water contamination with cyanide.
It accused the authorities concerned and the Sudanese company operating in the area of concealing the incidents and denying responsibility, without taking steps to hold those responsible accountable.
The committee held the government primarily responsible for the environmental and health damage associated with cyanide use. It rejected arguments that blamed unauthorised operators or mining entities that failed to comply with the Sudanese company’s requirements.
It argued that mining activities and the handling of cyanide, including its importation, transportation and trade, take place under government supervision, making the authorities responsible for ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
The statement also accused some local administrations of allowing harmful mining activities in their areas in exchange for financial benefits. It specifically alleged that local leaders in Qadir Province had facilitated such practices at the expense of public safety, livestock and natural resources.
The committee warned that the dangers of cyanide extend beyond human and animal health, threatening grazing land, environmental safety and potentially aggravating social and ethnic tensions.
In October 2025, residents in Talodi staged protests against the continued use of toxic cyanide by mining companies.
