The Porgera gold mine has met or exceeded its targets since resuming mining in December 2023, with gold production for the first half of 2024 above guidance.
Mine operator Barrick Gold said that while Porgera faced challenges due to the recent landslide in Mulitaka, keeping Porgera open allowed for a swift response by mine staff to support the collective recovery effort.
“Reacting rapidly to the disaster, our teams put into operation an air bridge and a temporary pipe across the slip to be able to supply fuel and essential goods not only to the mine but to local businesses serving the tens of thousands of residents of the Porgera Valley,” Barrick president and chief executive Mark Bristow said.
“The cooperation of the Mulitaka community is essential to keeping these lifelines open until the permanent bypass road can be completed.”
Porgera employees continue to assist at the Enga Provincial Government’s disaster relief centre in Wabag, delivering essential goods and fuel while helping with ground stabilisation and the design of a new bypass road.
Barrick and its joint venture partner Zijin Mining Group donated $US1 million ($1.5 million) to support communities in the wake of the landslide.
“Porgera stands ready to provide additional relief and assistance to support impacted families and communities during this time of need,” Bristow said.
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