Barrick North Mara's senior officer in charge of safety and health, Mr. Francisco Ntemi, emphasized the critical need for valuers and professionals to adhere to safety protocols during the asset evaluation process in Matongo Village, Tarime District. Speaking at the site, Ntemi highlighted the importance of hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementing control measures before any work commenced. He stressed that safety compliance must be integrated into every stage of the valuation, warning against complacency and urging vigilance in monitoring environmental conditions. "Safety must be part of every step you take," Ntemi stated, reinforcing the necessity of personal protective equipment (PPE) and immediate reporting of unsafe conditions.
North Mara Mine's Acting Relations Manager, Nasieku Kisambu, echoed Ntemi's concerns, urging experts to maintain heightened awareness while working in areas designated for relocation. Senior Valuer Baraka Mollel from the Office of the Chief Government Valuer further called for strict adherence to legal and procedural guidelines, emphasizing that safety violations during the exercise could jeopardize both workers and the community. Mollel specifically instructed professionals to report any actions or conditions that might compromise safety, underscoring the importance of a robust safety culture throughout the valuation process.
The asset valuation, underway in Matongo and Nyangoto villages, is part of the broader relocation efforts required for the construction of the new Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) at the North Mara Gold Mine. This initiative, aimed at expanding the mine's operations, has raised public interest due to its implications for local residents, who face displacement to accommodate the project. Ensuring safety during the valuation phase is critical to preventing accidents and fostering trust between the mining company and affected communities.
The directives from Barrick North Mara and government officials reflect a broader commitment to balancing industrial development with the well-being of stakeholders. By prioritizing safety protocols, the valuation exercise seeks to mitigate risks for workers and residents while ensuring transparency in the compensation process. The outcome of the assessments will directly impact the relocation terms for affected households, making the adherence to safety and procedural standards a cornerstone of the project's implementation.