The Government of Tanzania has renewed the Special Mining Licences for the North Mara Gold Mine for another 15 years, enabling the operation to continue under its existing ownership and partnership structure. This development was announced by Barrick Mining Corporation on Monday, October 5, 2026. The renewal is seen as a significant milestone for the mine and its partnership with the Tanzanian Government.
Barrick has been operating North Mara since 2019, when it and the Government established Twiga Minerals to jointly operate North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines. The partnership allows for the sharing of economic benefits equally between the two partners, with the Government holding a 16 per cent interest in each mine. This collaboration has been instrumental in increasing local employment and economic opportunities for surrounding communities.
According to Barrick’s chief executive officer for its Rest of World business, Seb Bock, the renewal reflects the company’s commitment to its partnership with Tanzania and surrounding communities. Since 2019, North Mara has seen a significant increase in local employment, with Tanzanian nationals accounting for 96 per cent of its workforce of about 3,000 people. Furthermore, 47 per cent of the workforce is drawn from communities surrounding the mine.
Barrick has made substantial contributions to the Tanzanian economy since 2019, with a total contribution of about $5.3 billion. In 2025 alone, the company contributed $1.2 billion through taxes, royalties, salaries, dividends, and local procurement. The company sources more than 90 per cent of its procurement from companies registered in Tanzania, with the majority being indigenous firms.
The positive impact of Barrick's operations is also reflected in the improved relations between the mine and surrounding communities. Tarime District Commissioner Major Edward Gowele noted that residents now view the mine as a community partner. This improvement is attributed to the involvement of Community Development Committees in identifying and prioritizing local development projects, including schools, health facilities, and roads.
The renewed licences and continued partnership between Barrick and the Tanzanian Government are expected to further enhance the socio-economic development of the region. The company's commitment to local employment and procurement has been recognized through several Government awards, including recognition as the top dividend payer and highest contributor to Government revenue in 2025.
The renewal of the North Mara Gold Mine licences for 15 years underscores the successful partnership between Barrick Mining Corporation and the Tanzanian Government. With a continued focus on community development and local economic growth, the mine is poised to maintain its significant contribution to Tanzania's economy and development.
Key points
- The Tanzanian Government has renewed the Special Mining Licences for the North Mara Gold Mine for another 15 years.
- Barrick Mining Corporation has contributed about $5.3 billion to the Tanzanian economy since 2019.
- Tanzanian nationals account for 96 per cent of the mine's workforce of about 3,000 people.
