BARRICK Gold Corporation President and chief executive officer Mark Bristow has handed over a newly constructed Kenyangi Primary School to the leadership of the Tarime District Council in Mara Region.

The school, built by the North Mara Gold Mine, is located in Matongo village, near the mine operated by Barrick in partnership with the government through Twiga Minerals Corporation.

The construction of the school was necessitated by the need to relocate the original Kenyangi Primary School to facilitate the expansion of mining operations at North Mara.

During the handover, Bristow said: “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the local community for their cooperation, which has been instrumental in the successful completion of this project. I wish all the best to the students who will study here.”

He highlighted the significance of investing in education for the development of local communities and the broader African continent. “Celebrating the investment in this school is celebrating the future of Africa,” he remarked.

Tarime Rural legislator Mwita Waitara, expressed his gratitude towards Bristow, noting that the school represents one of the major social initiatives funded by the North Mara Mine.

“We are very grateful for this school, which stands as one of the best in the Tarime District Council. Children will now learn in a conducive environment,” Waitara said.

Godfrey Kegoye, Matongo ward councillor also praised the initiative, asserting that the quality of the new school would enhance the academic performance of students.

“We are extremely thankful to Barrick’s President, Mark Bristow, because he delivers on his promises. We pray for his continued blessings,” Kegoye said.

Hadija Nusura, Kenyangi Primary School head-teacher said: “The mine has built us a very good school, and we should truly be proud of this mine.”

In addition to the handover, Bristow took the opportunity to inspect the school’s facilities and planted an indigenous tree as a symbol of North Mara Mine’s commitment to environmental conservation.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Barrick’s Manager in Tanzania, Melkiory Ngido, Acting Executive Director of the Tarime District Council, Paragia Balozi and General Manager of North Mara Mine, Apolinary Lyambiko.

Also present were Barrick employees, local councillors, village chairpersons, traditional elders, and students, all gathered to celebrate this significant contribution to the community's educational infrastructure.

The establishment of Kenyangi Primary School underscores Barrick’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to enhancing the quality of life in the areas surrounding its operations.