Barrick supports higher education sector in Zambia

Mining company Barrick Gold Corporation, owner and operator of the Lumwana copper mine in north-west Zambia, has donated 10 computers to the University of Zambia School of Mines and agreed to help repair the Kakayindu Police Post, in line with its commitment of creating long-term value for its host countries and communities.

Established in 1973, the University of Zambia School of Mines in Lusaka offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in geology, mining engineering, metallurgy and mineral processing.

According to Willem Jacobs, chief operating officer, Barrick Gold Corporation, Africa and the Middle East, said enrolment at the school has increased over the years, creating the need for an expansion of its infrastructure.

Jacobs said that in keeping with the group’s policy of employing host country nationals and up-skilling them to world-class standards, Barrick has long provided scholarships for undergraduate students. The donation of computers is intended to assist the school in its research projects as well as delivering computer-based course material to students.

Additionally, Barrick has agreed to help repair the Kakayindu Police Post, which was vandalised late last year as a result of community unrest. The 22-person strong post provides security to 37,000 people in the Lumwana Township and neighbouring communities in Solwezi district north-west Zambia.

“Barrick is driven by a commitment to contribute positively to the development of our host countries and communities,” added Jacobs, noting that in 2019 Lumwana employed 3,498 Zambians and contributed $272m to the country’s economy through taxes, salaries, procurement and community investments.