‘Kibali’s over $4 billion investment has created a thriving regional economy’- Mark Bristow

With its investment valued at over US$4 billion, the Kibali mine has created a thriving regional economy. This, through partnerships with local entrepreneurs benefiting from a framework.

These statistics were revealed by Mark Bristow, President and CEO of Barrick, during the 45th press conference held this Tuesday, July 5, 2022 in Kinshasa.

According to Mark Bristow, before the arrival of Kibali in Haut-Uélé, life was dear to Doko but since the installation of this mine in the corners, things have changed.

“A road was built when it was impassable. There was also the construction of stadiums, schools. In short, the money circulates in the city whereas in the past, everything went outside (Entebbe in Uganda). Today, the money stays in the region with the contractors who work with Kibali who employ the locals. A large boulevard was even built because of the economic activities that take place in this region. “, he said.

During this press conference, the Chairman and CEO of Barrick also discussed the production of the mine in the second quarter of 2022.

“ The mine’s reserves have also increased replacing the quantities mined over the past three years and ongoing conversion drilling is expected to continue this trend, despite producing more than 5.7 Moz of gold to date. Ongoing exploration offers new growth opportunities with the potential to expand the mineral resource base beyond the initial feasibility study. “, he explained.

On the same occasion, Mark Bristow returned to the place of women in the Kibali mine.

“Today, Barrick is also promoting the employment of women in the traditionally male-dominated mining industry through targeted recruitment campaigns and development programs designed to prepare them for rewarding careers in all levels of the organization. “, he said.

The 45th Kibali press conference was an opportunity for the mining company Barrick to award scholarships to two students from the University of Kinshasa in the Faculty of Geology. Two Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) also benefited from donations: a check (the amount of which was not revealed to the press) was given to these charities and support associations for the poorest. An action that falls within the framework of the Association “ Our lives in sharing ”.