The National Mine Closure Committee (NMCC) has endorsed Barrick Bulyanhulu's updated mine closure plan after a two-day inspection, describing it as largely compliant with Tanzania's mining regulations while calling for stronger long-term livelihood programmes for surrounding communities.
The committee said the mine has maintained high operational standards and continues to contribute significantly to the economy through taxes, royalties, government dividends, local procurement and community investments implemented under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
Speaking after the visit to the gold mine in Msalala District, NMCC Chairperson Engineer Hamisi Kamando said the committee was satisfied with the company's adherence to legal and environmental requirements governing mine operations and closure.
He noted that the mine's revised closure plan, prepared following the extension of its operational life to 2050, was comprehensive and required only minor adjustments to ensure full alignment with government regulations and policy directives.
"The company has demonstrated commitment to responsible mining and community development. What is needed is continued support through an enabling operating environment so that the mining sector can sustain its contribution to government revenue and national development," Eng Kamando said.
However, he urged Barrick to strengthen livelihood restoration initiatives that will outlast mining operations, particularly by investing more in agriculture and skills development for young people living around the mine.
He also recommended expanding support for small-scale miners, including improving access to affordable mineral processing services to enhance productivity and value addition.
Barrick Bulyanhulu Community Relations Manager Agapit Paul said the company had taken note of the committee's recommendations and would integrate them into its future planning.
"We appreciate the committee's guidance and remain committed to implementing the recommendations while maintaining high standards of safety, environmental stewardship and responsible mining," he said.
Responding to questions from committee members, Mr Paul said the ongoing 73-kilometre Kahama–Kakola road is being fully financed by Barrick's Tanzanian mining operations, with construction supervised by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads).
Shinyanga Regional Administrative Secretary CP Salum Rashid Hamduni said Barrick's operations continue to create employment opportunities for local residents, expand business opportunities for Tanzanian contractors and support economic growth across the region.
He added that the regional administration would continue collaborating with the company, citing its investments in schools, health facilities and road infrastructure through its CSR programme.
The National Mine Closure Committee was established under the Mining Act, 2010 to review and approve mine closure plans, ensuring mining sites are rehabilitated in line with environmental, safety and social standards while preparing communities for sustainable post-mining economic activities.
