Barrick’s Twiga JV marks five years of growth Tanzania

[Redator]

The Twiga Minerals joint venture between Barrick Mining (TSX: ABX) (NYSE: GOLD) and the Tanzanian government has reached its fifth anniversary, marking a period of economic and infrastructure contributions to the country, the miner said .

“When we established Twiga, it was about more than just resolving legacy issues,” President and CEO Mark Bristow said on Monday. “It was about building a new future by unlocking Tanzania’s gold endowment in a way that fairly shares the benefits and builds lasting value for all stakeholders.” 

Formed in 2019 as part of a deal to settle a protracted tax dispute, Twiga has since injected $4.79 billion into Tanzania’s economy, including $558 million in the first half of this year. Barrick oversees its Tanzanian operations through Twiga, which in turn manages the Bulyanhulu, North Mara and Buzwagi mines.

Bristow said the partnership offers a sustainable model for mineral development. Over 90 percent of procurement is sourced from Tanzanian suppliers, most of them local companies. Tanzanians make up 96 percent of the workforce, with nearly half coming from surrounding communities.

One tangible example of the partnership’s impact is the Future Forward education initiative, a $30-million collaboration with the Tanzanian government and the President’s office. Now in its second phase, the programme is expected to provide classroom space for 45,000 additional students across the country.

No production surprises

Barrick reported that all its Tanzanian mines continue to perform in line with production guidance. At Bulyanhulu, development of the Upper West decline is well underway, supported by a new fleet and upgraded infrastructure. Targeted investments in ventilation and dewatering systems are easing operational bottlenecks, improving efficiency and extending the mine’s production lifespan.

Barrick says its Tanzanian mines continue to deliver in line with guidance.

At the Bulyanhulu gold mine, development of the Upper West decline is well advanced, supported by the arrival of a new fleet and improved access through expanded infrastructure.

At North Mara, a newly commissioned battery energy storage system has improved power reliability. Both underground and open-pit mining are progressing as planned. Community resettlement efforts are nearing completion, and the mine continues to strengthen relationships with surrounding communities.

“Our partnership with host communities is fundamental to our presence in Tanzania,” Bristow noted. “We’ve had to work hard to rebuild relationships, particularly around North Mara, and we are seeing the benefits of consistent engagement and delivery on our commitments.”

Exploration remains a key focus. Current drilling aims to expand resources at Gokona and Gena within North Mara, and along Reef 1 and Reef 2 structures at Bulyanhulu. Airborne geophysics and drilling are also planned at the newly consolidated Siga and Nzega greenfield sites to replace mined ounces and build a sustainable resource pipeline.

Buzwagi mine in Tanzania. (Image courtesy of Barrick Mining)

Even at Buzwagi, now in closure, Barrick is focused on long-term value. A special economic zone is under development with several investors engaged. Meanwhile, the Barrick Academy is on track to train over 2,800 supervisors and foremen from across Africa by year-end.

“Our commitment to Tanzania didn’t end when the ore ran out at Buzwagi,” Bristow said. “We’re leaving behind infrastructure and institutions that will benefit the country well into the future.”

Reflecting on the five-year milestone, Bristow said Twiga has stabilized operations and built a foundation for long-term value through shared ownership, local empowerment, and responsible development.

“Twiga is more than a company. It is a model for what mining can be when it’s done right, in partnership and with purpose,” Bristow said.

 The partnership has faced challenges. In November, the Ontario Superior Court dismissed a lawsuit filed by 21 Tanzanian nationals who accused Barrick of complicity in extrajudicial killings carried out by police at the North Mara mine. The court ruled it lacked jurisdiction to hear the case.