LAGOS, Oct 6 – The Government of Tanzania has renewed the Special Mining Licenses for Barrick Mining Corporation’s North Mara Gold Mine for another 15 years, providing a longer operating horizon for investment in the mine, its workforce and surrounding communities.
Barrick has operated North Mara since 2019, during which time the mine has expanded local employment and procurement while increasing its economic contribution to Tanzania.
Tanzanian nationals now account for 96% of Barrick’s approximately 3,000 employees in the country, with 47% coming from communities surrounding its mining operations.
Barrick said it has contributed approximately $5.3 billion to Tanzania’s economy since 2019, including about $1.2 billion in 2025 through taxes, royalties, salaries, dividends and local procurement.
More than 90% of Barrick’s procurement spending is sourced from companies registered in Tanzania, with the majority classified as indigenous businesses. The company was also recognised by the Tanzanian government in 2025 with several awards, including for dividend payments and contribution to government revenue.
“This is an important milestone for North Mara and for our partnership with Tanzania,” said Seb Bock, Chief Executive Officer of Barrick’s Rest of World business.
“Since 2019, we’ve worked with the Government of Tanzania and local communities to build a stronger partnership and to create more opportunities for all Tanzanians. At the core of our business is building partnerships of real depth and trust with all stakeholders, and this renewal reflects that commitment.”
Long-Term Partnership
Barrick and the Tanzanian government established Twiga Minerals in 2019 to jointly operate the North Mara and Bulyanhulu mines. Under the structure, the Tanzanian government holds a 16% interest in each mine, while the two partners share the economic benefits equally.
At the community level, Community Development Committees participate in determining which local projects receive priority, including investments in schools, health clinics and roads.
The renewed license extends the operating framework for North Mara as Barrick continues to invest in the mine and its surrounding communities.
Tarime District Commissioner Major Edward Gowele said relations between the mine and surrounding communities had strengthened since Barrick assumed operations.
“Relations at North Mara Mine have strengthened since Barrick took over,” Gowele said. “Residents now really view the mine as a community partner.”
The license renewal reinforces Tanzania’s position as a major operating market for Barrick and provides the company with a longer-term framework for production, capital investment and local economic participation at North Mara.
