Summary
The initiative will enable more than 150 researchers and academics to undertake studies in various areas of the mining sector and develop recommendations for improving policies, regulations and legislation aimed at accelerating industry growth.
DAR ES SALAAM: Barrick Tanzania, which operates its mining activities in partnership with the government of Tanzania through Twiga Minerals Corporation, has signed a landmark agreement with the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) to strengthen capacity building for students and academics, while supporting research initiatives aimed at advancing Tanzania’s mining industry.
Under the vital agreement, Barrick will invest 25bn/- over the next ten years to fund research, scholarships, innovation, and skills development programmes in the mining sector.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which coincided with the launch of UDSM’s 11th Research and Innovation Week, where Barrick served as the main sponsor, Barrick Country Manager, Dr Melkiory Ngido, said the partnership is designed to enhance productivity and efficiency in the mining sector through research, innovation, and the development of a highly skilled workforce.
Dr Ngido expressed that the robust programme will support undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students, while also creating opportunities for academics and researchers to contribute to the growth of the country’s mining industry.
“Since the establishment of Twiga Minerals in 2020, Barrick has continued to work closely with the government to develop the mining sector so that it can deliver sustainable benefits and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development,” he said.
He further noted that the extension of the lifespan of Barrick’s mines by another 25 years has reinforced the company’s commitment to collaborating with the government to ensure that the mining industry plays a transformative role in Tanzania’s economy.
According to Dr Ngido, the initiative will enable more than 150 researchers and academics to undertake studies in various areas of the mining sector and develop recommendations for improving policies, regulations and legislation aimed at accelerating industry growth.
The programme is also expected to provide scholarships and educational support to more than 500 students, helping to build a new generation of professionals equipped to serve the sector.
Launching the Research and Innovation Week celebrations, Minister for Minerals Mr. Anthony Mavunde underscored the critical role played by UDSM academics in generating knowledge, enhancing understanding, and developing skills that support the growth and sustainability of Tanzania’s mining industry.
“The contribution of researchers and academics from the University of Dar es Salaam is vital in strengthening the mining sector and ensuring that its benefits are maximised for national development and the welfare of Tanzanians,” the minister said.
For his part, UDSM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. William Anangisye, stressed the importance of continued investment in research and innovation as a means of addressing national challenges and promoting socio-economic development.
Speaking during the university’s 11th Research and Innovation Week, Prof Anangisye said research remains a powerful tool for generating solutions that can improve livelihoods, drive economic growth, and contribute to the country’s overall prosperity.
He called for sustained collaboration between academia, government and the private sector to ensure that research outcomes are effectively translated into practical solutions for national development.
ABOUT BARRIK TANZANIA
Barrick Tanzania operates the world-class Bulyanhulu and North Mara gold mines through Twiga Minerals Corporation, a joint venture formed in 2019 with the Tanzanian government.
The global About Barrick corporation has invested over $2.8 billion in-country since 2019, prioritizing local employment and economic growth.
Core Operations
North Mara Gold Mine: Located in the Tarime district (Mara region). It is a combined open-pit and underground operation (Nyabirama and Gokona deposits) targeting “tier-one” status.
Bulyanhulu Gold Mine:
Located in the Shinyanga region, it is a highly productive underground gold mine holding substantial proven and probable gold reserves (approx. 3.8 million ounces attributable to Barrick)
Economic & Social Impact Localization:
Tanzanian nationals make up 96 percent of the workforce, with nearly half hired directly from local communities surrounding the mines.
Procurement:
The company directs over $1.4 billion toward national and local suppliers, significantly expanding the regional supply chain.
Government Revenue:
Through North Mara: Mining With Integrity, the operations have contributed over $1.02 billion in taxes, royalties, and levies, frequently ranking as the largest taxpayer in the country.
Community Investment:
Commits funds to local infrastructure (e.g., road construction from Kahama to Kakola), healthcare, and education.
