THE Parliamentary Standing Committee on Budget has called on mining companies to comply with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Local Content Regulations to ensure that communities around mining areas benefit from natural resources.

Josephat Kandege, the committee’s vice chairman, made the remarks over the weekend during a visit to Barrick North Mara Mine. The visit aimed to assess the company's execution of CSR and local content policies.

Kandege noted that while some mining firms are adhering to CSR and local content regulations, others are lagging behind. He urged all companies in the sector to follow North Mara’s example in supporting community development.

He stated that the mine has supported various community projects, including water, health, education, and infrastructure. “We want to see all mining companies embrace this spirit of giving back to the community,” he emphasized.

He highlighted the success of clean and safe water projects in 11 villages surrounding the mine, which have improved the lives of Tarime residents. "We are pleased with Barrick North Mara's efforts to provide clean water in four villages around the mine," he said.

Kandege, who is also the MP for Kalambo, commended the mine for employing many Tanzanians at the managerial level, including the general manager, as part of its commitment to local content regulations.

"This visit allowed us to see the mining operations first-hand — from exploration and extraction to processing — and better understand how to advise the government on budget and mining sector opportunities," Kandege said.

He called for a follow-up meeting in Dodoma to address tax and legal challenges facing the mining sector. "Our goal is to ensure the mining sector continues contributing to the national economy, driving growth, and creating jobs for Tanzanians," he added.

Vedastus Mathayo, Musoma Urban MP, noted that the mine spends over 7bn/- annually on community development projects, which has positively impacted local communities.

Special Seats MP Stella Ikupa Alex praised the mine for its achievements in the mining sector, including several national awards. "These awards reflect Barrick’s positive impact and strong performance," she said.

Leah Komanya, MP for Meatu, also thanked the mine for investing 1bn/- in the construction of Genkuru Health Centre in Tarime District. "This is a meaningful initiative that improves healthcare access. The mine’s environmental conservation efforts and job creation for Tanzanian youth are also commendable," Komanya added.

Juma Hamad Omar, MP for Ole, commended Barrick for prioritizing education in its CSR programs. He also praised the presentation made by the mine’s General Manager to the committee.

Apolinary Lyambiko, the mine’s General Manager, said Barrick North Mara plans to spend 1.5bn/- on a well-drilling project in Kewanja Village to address water shortages in Tarime District.

Lyambiko added that the mine pays taxes, including service levies to the Tarime District Council and royalties to five surrounding villages. He also announced that the mine's operational life has been extended to 2040.

"We’ve made significant progress, and the mine's lifespan will continue until 2040. Currently, 96 percent of the mine’s employees are Tanzanians, and we will continue training them to build professional skills," Lyambiko said.