MARK Bristow, President, and CEO of Barrick, proudly declared Kibali Gold Mine – Africa’s largest – as a pioneering force in sustainable mining during a recent media briefing. He underscored the mine’s commitment to green practices, especially in the context of renewable energy and community development.
Bristow emphasised Kibali’s environmental leadership, stating, ‘Kibali is a real role model for mining in Africa. As a long-standing partner of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), we built Kibali in the remote north-east of the country, opening up a new mining frontier and promoting the development of a flourishing local economy.’
He highlighted Kibali’s role as a green leader, with 81 percent of its electricity already sourced from hydropower. The upcoming 16-megawatt solar plant and additional energy storage are poised to increase the mine’s overall renewable electricity supply to an impressive 85 percent. Bristow shared, ‘For six months of the year, Kibali’s electricity demand will be met entirely by renewable energy.’
Beyond its environmental initiatives, Kibali has become an economic catalyst for the DRC, with a total in-country investment of $4.7bn through royalties, taxes, dividends, and local supplier payments. The mine’s community development fund, contributing 0.3 percent of revenue, has fuelled 44 new projects in 2023 alone.
Bristow underscored the broader impact, stating, ‘Our commitment goes beyond economics. Kibali has launched 11 projects through the Cahier des Charges scheme, with $8.9 million invested over five years. Our support for biodiversity continues, with plans to introduce additional white rhinos to the Garamba National Park.’
Operational success is evident, with Kibali achieving its 2023 production targets and setting a new annual throughput record. Bristow concluded, ‘Kibali stands as a model of what can be achieved through our commitment to partnering with host countries and local communities.’
Bristow expressed Barrick’s readiness to collaborate further, saying, ‘We stand ready to work with the Government to grow our investments and development projects in the DRC.’
Kibali’s holistic approach positions it as a beacon for sustainable and responsible mining practices in Africa.