In a remarkable testament to the power of strategic partnerships, Barrick Gold Corporation has unveiled impressive figures that underscore the substantial economic impact of its Twiga joint venture with the Tanzanian government.
Since the inception of this partnership in 2019, Barrick has invested over $4.24 billion into the Tanzanian economy, with a significant contribution of $888 million recorded in 2024 alone.
This initiative, encompassing the North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines, stands as a model for sustainable mining practices and community development, demonstrating how the extractive industry can contribute meaningfully to national and local economies.
At a recent media briefing, Barrick’s president and chief executive, Mark Bristow, emphasized the pivotal role of the Twiga partnership in the extractive industry of Tanzania.
He noted that the partnership has not only generated thousands of jobs but has also fostered local entrepreneurship and funded essential community projects.
“We spent $573 million on national suppliers and service providers last year, representing about 83% of our total spend in-country.
Additionally, 75% of all our payments to suppliers and service providers went to indigenous companies, exceeding our target of 61%,” Bristow stated, underscoring the commitment to local economic empowerment and the importance of supporting Tanzanian businesses.
The impact of Barrick’s investments is palpable in the communities surrounding the mines. A remarkable 96% of Barrick’s workforce of 6,185 is comprised of Tanzanian nationals, with 53% hailing from local communities.
This local hiring policy not only enhances employment opportunities but also fosters a sense of ownership and involvement among residents.
The infusion of local talent into the workforce creates a ripple effect, as community members gain skills and experience that can be utilized in various sectors beyond mining.
Furthermore, Barrick has allocated over $5 million in the past year for initiatives in potable water, healthcare, and education.
This brings the total investment in community projects to $15.8 million since the formation of the Twiga Mineral Corporation.
These investments have helped improve the quality of life for many Tanzanians, ensuring access to essential services such as clean water, healthcare facilities, and educational opportunities.
The company’s commitment to local communities extends beyond financial investments.
Barrick actively engages with local stakeholders to understand their needs and priorities, ensuring that community projects are aligned with their aspirations.
This participatory approach has fostered trust and collaboration between Barrick and the communities, enhancing the overall impact of their initiatives.
As part of its commitment to safety and operational excellence, Barrick has reported that both the Bulyanhulu and North Mara mines exceeded their production guidance for 2024, collectively producing over 500,000 ounces of gold.
Remarkably, both mines achieved a full year without a Lost-Time Injury, reflecting Barrick’s stringent safety protocols and commitment to worker welfare.
This achievement not only showcases the effectiveness of Barrick’s safety measures but also highlights the company’s dedication to creating a safe working environment for all employees.
Barrick’s emphasis on safety is complemented by its ongoing training and development programs for its workforce.
Through these initiatives, employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to work safely and efficiently, further contributing to the overall success of the operations.
Barrick’s environmental stewardship is equally commendable.
The Buzwagi mine has made significant strides in closure implementation and environmental management, with a particular focus on water management and vegetation maintenance.
By prioritizing sustainable practices, Barrick aims to minimize its environmental footprint and contribute to the long-term health of the ecosystems in which it operates.
Moreover, the establishment of a Buzwagi Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is in advanced stages, attracting interest from investors.
This SEZ represents a significant opportunity for economic development in the region, as it is designed to facilitate trade and investment, creating an environment conducive to business growth.
The establishment of the SEZ exemplifies Barrick’s role in driving economic development in Tanzania while also contributing to the country’s long-term growth strategy.
This is highly reflected in the Barrick Academy, inaugurated at Buzwagi in 2024 for the company’s staff from Africa and Middle East, it is a cornerstone of the company’s commitment to developing talent making the closed mine sustainably continue being economic powerhouse for the nation.
With a focus on training foremen, supervisors, and superintendents, the Academy has already trained 1,700 individuals and is on track to exceed its target of training over 2,800 people by the end of 2025.
This investment in education and skill development not only enhances the capabilities of Barrick’s workforce but also contributes to the overall economic empowerment of the local communities.
The Academy’s curriculum is designed to provide participants with practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable to their work in the mining industry.
By focusing on the development of local talent, Barrick is helping to build a sustainable workforce that can support the continued growth of the mining sector in Tanzania.
On the exploration front, Barrick has successfully replenished reserves through conversion drilling at both mines.
The company continues to expand its footprint in the Nzega District, adding over 2,000 km² of new areas, which is vital for supporting mineral reserve growth and aligning with Barrick’s long-term strategy of identifying Tier One mining systems in the region.
This proactive approach to exploration not only ensures the sustainability of Barrick’s operations but also contributes to the overall growth of Tanzania’s mining sector.
The Twiga partnership has garnered numerous accolades in the past year, recognizing its excellence in safety, environmental performance, and community engagement.
Notably, North Mara was acknowledged as the largest economic contributor in Tanzania’s extractive industry, receiving awards for its commitment to occupational health and safety, corporate social responsibility, and local content compliance.
These recognitions serve as a testament to Barrick’s dedication to excellence and its positive impact on the communities in which it operates.
Bristow concluded, “Barrick’s work in Tanzania is a model for sustainable mining that balances economic, environmental, and social responsibility. The recognition we have received speaks to our commitment to excellence and the value we bring to our host countries.”
His remarks encapsulate the ethos of the Twiga partnership, which strives to create a harmonious balance between mining activities and the well-being of local communities.
As Barrick Gold Corporation continues to innovate and lead in sustainable mining practices, its Twiga partnership stands as a powerful example of how responsible mining can drive economic growth while fostering community development and environmental stewardship.
The ongoing commitment to local employment, community investment, and safety demonstrates Barrick’s dedication to creating lasting value for Tanzania and its people.
The Twiga partnership not only contributes to the country’s economic prosperity but also sets a benchmark for other mining companies aiming to achieve sustainable and responsible operations in the industry.
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