Summary
The mine would continue prioritising occupational safety, health and environmental stewardship, emphasising that the mine’s management remains committed to implementing all recommendations provided by the committee.
By Staff Writer Kakola/Msalala District, Shinyanga.
THE National Mine Closure Committee has expressed its satisfaction with Barrick Mining Corporation contribution to the country through the payment of tax, royalties, shareholder dividends, and its support for the development of communities surrounding its mining operations.
Closing a two-day inspection visit to Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine in Msalala District, Shinyanga Region, Committee Chairperson Mr. Hamisi Kamando said the committee was pleased with the mine’s reports, particularly its compliance with regulations and professionalism demonstrated in its operations.
“The government has entrusted us with the responsibility of ensuring revenue is generated from the mining sector. We highly appreciate your contribution to the development and well-being of Tanzanians. We have also observed that you are implementing your corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies and programmes effectively,” he said.
He explained that what they needed was continued support through an enabling environment that “allows you to perform even better in the mining sector so that the government can continue collecting revenue for the benefit of the nation,” said Engineer Kamando.”
He added that Barrick Bulyanhulu’s long-term mine closure plan, which extends to 2050, was well prepared, requiring only minor adjustments to fully align with government laws, regulations and directives.
Furthermore, he said as part of the mine closure plan, Barrick Bulyanhulu should consider expanding community support beyond health, education and infrastructure projects by strengthening agricultural development initiatives for surrounding communities.
The Chairperson of the National Mine Closure Committee, Engineer Hamisi Kamando (centre), emphasizes a point during the committee’s two-day visit to the Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine. To his right is the General Manager of Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine, Rhys Harvey, and first left is the Shinyanga Regional Administrative Secretary, CP Salum Rashid Hamduni.far right is the Secretary of the Committee , Engineer Ephraim Mushi
“During the mine closure process, it is important to focus on social livelihood projects. Young people living around mining areas should be empowered through agricultural programmes, while artisanal and small-scale miners should also be supported with affordable mineral processing services,” he said.
Barrick Bulyanhulu Community Relations Manager Agapith Paul said the company had received the committee’s recommendations and would implement them in the broader interests of Tanzania and its citizens.
He added that the mine would continue prioritising occupational safety, health and environmental stewardship, emphasising that the mine’s management remains committed to implementing all recommendations provided by the committee.
Responding to a question from one of the committee members regarding the 73-kilometre Kahama–Kakola road being constructed by Barrick Tanzania, Mr Paul explained that the project was fully funded by the mine, but was under the management of the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS).
Meanwhile, Shinyanga Regional Administrative Secretary Salum Rashid Hamduni said the presence of Barrick’s mining operations in the region had created employment opportunities for young people, business opportunities for local contractors, and serves as a catalyst for regional economic growth.
He added that the Shinyanga Regional Government would continue working closely with Barrick Bulyanhulu because of the company’s significant contribution through its CSR programmes, including the construction of schools, health facilities, and the improvement and development of road infrastructure.
Barrick Bulyanhulu Community Relations Manager Agapith Paul addresses members of the National Mine Closure Committee during the committee’s two-day working visit to Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine.
The National Mine Closure Committee (NMCC) was officially established in Tanzania following the enactment of the Mining Act, 2010 (Act No 15), and the introduction of comprehensive Mine Closure Guidelines launched in 2019.
Its primary responsibility is to review and approve mine closure plans.
This ensures that once mining activities cease, mines are closed in accordance with safety, health and environmental standards. The committee also ensures that former mining sites are rehabilitated and restored to a safe condition, allowing them to be used for other economic activities that benefit surrounding communities.
Barrick Mining Corporation has partnered with Twiga Minerals Corporation to revitalize the Tanzanian gold mining industry. This partnership, established in 2019, has injected nearly USD 4.8 billion into Tanzania’s economy, with USD 558 million contributed in the first half of 2025 alone.
