A gold-mining site in Faka, Ngauro area, Eastern Equatoria State | Credit | Jale Richard/Eye Radio

The Ministry of Mining says it will strengthen regulations and oversight in the sector following a recent deadly incident at a mining site in Khor Kaltan in Central Equatoria’s Wonduruba Administrative Payam.

Minister of Mining Losuba Ludoru Wongo said the tragedy a week ago, which claimed at least 37 lives in Kulipapa, Central Equatoria State, has cast a shadow over efforts to develop the sector. He expressed condolences to the affected families.

“Our celebrations are overshadowed by deep sorrow following the tragic mining incident at Kulipapa in Central Equatoria state, which claimed the lives of about 37 of our brothers and sisters,” Wongo said on the state run-TV, SSBC.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Mining, I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and communities affected by this painful loss. Our government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Salva Kiir, remains committed to ensuring that such tragedies are prevented through stronger regulations, better oversight, and enhanced protection of all those working in this vital sector.”

Authorities said stricter operational guidelines will be enforced nationwide to improve safety standards. Non-compliant operations at the Gorom mining site have been ordered closed as part of immediate measures to restore order.

Major General Gum Agok, head of the protection unit for mining operations, said strict compliance with licensing requirements is essential.

“As you know, there are laws governing the mining process. This means it’s unacceptable for anyone to go to any site and conduct drilling and mining operations without obtaining a license from the ministry,” Agok said.

“These sites where these people are currently working belong to companies. For us to progress as a country, we must implement regulations and laws; circumventing these regulations is not permitted.”

Authorities said enforcement efforts will continue nationwide to ensure all mining activities comply with legal and safety standards.