Tracking the great gold rush

As demand for gold skyrockets, artisanal mining and smuggling ramps up, financing conflict and corrupt politicians, risking human lives and destroying the environment. The Africa Report tracks the precious mineral on its journey from rebel-controlled areas to jewellery stores across the world.

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conflict, corruption, death, and environmental destruction

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The rush for gold is one of the ugliest market forces in the world

As demand for gold skyrockets, artisanal mining and smuggling ramps up, financing conflict and corrupt politicians, risking human lives and destroying the environment. In the first report of our 5-part series, we look at the current state and worth of gold, amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

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criminal gangs and war zones

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Mining in Africa and beyond: Concealed origins

For years, Eastern DRC has been embroiled in one of the most murderous and complex conflicts in Africa. National forces, local fighters and foreign-backed militias have piled in, battling for political control, resources, borders and ethnic identity.

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shining role in politics

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Sudan: Hemeti and the $16bn annual gold exports to the UAE

Until January of 2020, when Sudan opened up the gold market to raise revenue, the central bank in Khartoum was the only entity allowed to buy and export gold, and it set up local trading centres.

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funds for growth

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Sahel treasure trove: Informal gold trade fuelling Islamist insurgencies

Across the Sahel, several insurgencies are raging. They've taken over the informal gold trade as source of funding their groups and recruiting new members.

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The yellow brick road

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Why much of Africa’s illicit gold trade transits through Dubai

“The gold business is changing, many of the bigger companies are changing their strategies,” says Richard Morgan, head of government relations at mining giant Anglo American. “We are doing much less in Africa and no gold at all. South Africa may still have massive gold reserves but for a big company it’s all about the business case,” he adds.

The In Depth Collection