Artisanal and Illegal Mining
Many people around the world maintain their livelihoods through artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). Using techniques that have changed little since ancient times, ASM communities, globally, provide a source of direct or indirect employment for millions of people. As a result, ASM has a legitimate and significant role to play in the social and economic development of many countries. ASM and large-scale mining operations often operate side-by-side and that is true for some Barrick mines in Tanzania. The individuals and groups engaged in ASM near our operations are key stakeholders and we engage with them with a view to a safe, healthy and profitable coexistence.
ASM communities, globally, provide a source of direct or indirect employment for over 100 million people.
Currently, ABG has embarked on the creation of a comprehensive Co-Existence Plan for the Mara region in Tanzania, where the North Mara mine is located. The plan is focused on solidifying community trust and credibility, enhancing investment programs and developing realistic and sustainable alternative livelihoods in the regions. As part of these initiatives, ABG is looking at opportunities to develop an artisanal and small-scale mining project to provide both immediate and sustainable benefits to ASM communities within the vicinity of the North Mara mine. The objective is to identify a low entry project concept, with definable resources and obligations to meet all stakeholder expectations.
Illegal mining is a complex and difficult issue to manage and one of the principal challenges of mining at both the Porgera mine (PNG) and the North Mara mine (Tanzania). Illegal miners are people who evade the perimeter security around a mine and enter the mine property without permission with the intention of stealing gold-bearing ore. Those involved in illegal mining are trespassers and are breaking the law. Their actions put hundreds of lives at risk, including those of our employees and members of local communities.
Illegal mining differs from artisanal and small-scale miners, who generate income from labour-intensive mining activities, based on either formal legal or informal mining rights. This type of mining activity uses limited technology and often involves traditional panning and sluicing methods to recover gold from creek beds, river benches and other locations. Barrick has an interest in a mutually respectful and peaceful coexistence with lawful artisanal and small-scale miners.