African countries known for gold smuggling

African countries known for gold smuggling include:

Kenya: A major gold transit point. Gold is smuggled into Kenya from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, and possibly Sudan. Kenya officially reported only 672 kilograms of gold exports in 2023, but estimates suggest illicit exports exceed two tons annually, indicating widespread undeclared smuggling. It serves as a key route before gold is re-exported, primarily to the United Arab Emirates. Smuggling is enabled by corrupt officials, including law enforcement officials and politicians, who can protect or facilitate the illicit trade. Some mining companies are linked to local elites and foreign investors, making prosecution difficult. Nairobi's Eastleigh is a known illicit gold marketplace. Gold is often smuggled through Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) en route to Dubai. It is officially declared there to conceal its true origin. Rwanda: Along with Kenya, it is considered a hotspot for gold smuggling from neighboring countries such as South Sudan and the DRC. Uganda: Also a transit point for illegal gold smuggling from South Sudan and the DRC. Important export points are located in Kampala and Entebbe. Uganda's gold exports have increased significantly due to smuggling. South Sudan: Smuggled gold is transported through routes leading to Kenya and Uganda. Political elites reportedly protect smuggling networks. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Significant gold smuggling occurs. Gold reaches international markets via Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Kenya. Other countries with illegal gold flows include Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Cameroon. However, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are the main hubs for smuggling and transit in East and Central Africa. The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, is the main international destination for this smuggled gold. @https://m.facebook.com/dw.africa/photos/kenya-rwanda-and-uganda-have-become-major-hubs-for-gold-smuggling-from-neighbori/1110394997791058 @https://nilepost.co.ug/news/262881/new-report-links-kenya-to-gold-smuggling-from-sudan-and-drc @https://africangoldreport.org/kenya @https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/counties/article/2001477456/kenya-and-uganda-named-as-major-smuggling-hubs-for-gold-from-south-sudan