Ontario Court Dismisses Tanzanian Lawsuit Against Barrick Gold
Dual-listed Barrick Gold has welcomed the Ontario Superior Court’s decision to dismiss a lawsuit brought by 21 Tanzanian nationals alleging human rights abuses by Tanzanian police at the North Mara gold mine. The court ruled that Ontario, Canada, was not the appropriate jurisdiction for the claims.
The lawsuit, filed in November 2022, accused Barrick of complicity in extrajudicial killings purportedly committed by police officers stationed at the mine.
The plaintiffs argued that Barrick, as the majority owner of the North Mara mine, effectively controlled the police presence and should be held accountable for alleged violations.
Barrick CEO Mark Bristow reaffirmed the company’s stance, dismissing the allegations as “baseless claims by a small number of activist NGOs.” Bristow highlighted Barrick’s efforts in Tanzania through its Twiga partnership with the government, which has facilitated significant economic contributions and community development.
“Our investment in the socioeconomic development of our host communities, alongside our holistic sustainability strategy, has materially improved lives while supporting Tanzania’s economic transformation,” Bristow said.
Barrick has managed the North Mara mine since acquiring a majority stake in 2019. Located in Tanzania’s northwest, the mine is among the country’s largest gold producers, playing a crucial role in the local and national economy.
The court’s decision reinforces Barrick’s position and shifts attention back to its ongoing contributions to Tanzania’s development and sustainability efforts.
