Kibali Gold Mine Drilling Expands Mine Lifespan

Is Kibali’s gold output sustainable long term? With new 2024 drilling confirming more reserves, Barrick sees extended mine life, improved output, and local economic growth.

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Key Takeaways from Kibali Gold Mine Report

• ARK-KCD corridor drilling confirms new gold-bearing zones

• Mine life expected to grow through added reserves

• Renewable energy now powers operations over 85% of the time

• 700+ DRC companies benefit from procurement programs

• White rhino reintroduction boosts regional biodiversity

ARK-KCD Corridor Drilling Expands Gold Reserves

Barrick Gold Corporation has confirmed that new drilling in the ARK-KCD corridor at its Kibali gold mine points to expanded ore continuity. Located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kibali is now expected to deliver longer-term output.

CEO Mark Bristow said the mineralization is spreading both laterally and deeper, strengthening the mine’s long-term value. According to Barrick’s 2024 exploration update, the findings improve confidence in the mine’s ability to maintain or grow its reserves within the current footprint. Also read more about how Lupaka won a $40M ICSID dispute against Peru.

Life-of-Mine Extended With Strong Ore Continuity

Since Kibali began producing gold in 2013, Barrick has replaced every ounce mined. The latest drilling supports that trend. The ARK-KCD system appears geologically stable and productive, showing consistent grade and continuity.

These results suggest the gold mine can support several more years of output without major operational changes. With a clear orebody and minimal infrastructure expansion needed, Kibali is positioned to continue leading Barrick’s gold output in Africa.

Tech Advancements Boost Kibali’s Underground Output

Barrick is introducing underground mining improvements in Q3 2025. These changes are expected to increase productivity while reducing operational costs. The company has focused on equipment upgrades and long-term performance optimization across the site.

With increased efficiency, Kibali can produce more gold while keeping costs under control, making the mine more profitable without environmental trade-offs. Operational shifts are backed by real-time monitoring and automation initiatives already underway.

Renewable Energy Now Powers Most Of Kibali Site

A 16-megawatt solar plant with integrated battery storage was recently commissioned. As a result, 85% of Kibali’s energy now comes from renewable sources. For half of the year, the mine operates entirely on clean power.

This places Kibali among the leading global gold mines using renewable energy. According to MiningWeekly’s 2025 energy index, the site is now a benchmark in mining sustainability. The energy transition is reducing diesel dependence and cutting emissions across operations.

Barrick Strengthens Local Economy Through Partnerships

Kibali has invested over $6.3 billion in the DRC to date. Of that, $3.1 billion has gone to local contractors and service providers. Mining satellite pits like Kalimva, Ikamva, and Ndala supports DRC businesses through long-term contracts.

More than 700 local companies are involved in supply chains and benefit from procurement training. Barrick also publishes tenders with DRC’s subcontracting regulator to ensure full transparency. The company continues to prioritize DRC-owned partners.

White Rhino Return Reflects Biodiversity Commitment

Barrick works with African Parks and the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation on wildlife preservation in Garamba National Park. In 2023, 16 white rhinos were successfully reintroduced. Now, 64 more are expected in 2025.

This long-term biodiversity initiative aims to restore endangered species in the region. Conservation efforts are built into Barrick’s sustainability strategy, aligning gold production with environmental responsibility. Kibali serves as a global case study for mining-based ecological support.

Community Projects Funded Through Development Program

Barrick's 0.3% community development fund has financed 44 projects. As of mid-2025, 41 are complete. These include new schools, health centers, and local infrastructure. The company also invests through the Cahier des Charges agreement, with $4.8 million already used on local initiatives.

These investments reflect Barrick’s strategy of shared growth with surrounding communities. Education, access to healthcare, and clean water supply remain core focus areas for future projects.

Training Local Talent Through The Barrick Academy

Leadership and technical training continue at Kibali through the Barrick Academy. In Q2 alone, 170 local employees completed development programs. The Academy helps expand workforce skills and supports employee growth.

It also contributes to long-term stability and operational efficiency at the mine. Many trainees advance into leadership roles within operations, strengthening Barrick’s goal of building a DRC-led workforce. This approach supports economic independence and long-term skills development in the region.

Kibali Stands As Model For Future Mine Growth

Kibali is Barrick’s largest gold producer in Africa and a key part of its long-term plans. The mine is led by Congolese teams, sourced through local procurement, and powered mostly by renewables. New drilling confirms that even more reserves are available within its current footprint.

According to Bristow, lessons from Kibali will guide future DRC mining projects, especially in gold and copper. The company aims to replicate Kibali’s model in other high-potential areas.

Kibali's Future Driven By Reserves And Responsibility

The Kibali gold mine shows how scale, sustainability, and profitability can align. Barrick’s commitment to long-term partnerships, biodiversity, and local empowerment continues to pay off. With over 700 DRC companies supported, massive investment in green energy, and continued community infrastructure development, Kibali stands as a powerful case study in modern mining. The ARK-KCD corridor’s new drilling adds even more value, keeping this site at the center of Africa’s gold sector for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the ARK-KCD drilling reveal at Kibali?

Barrick’s 2024 drilling confirms that the ARK-KCD corridor hosts additional gold-bearing ore, both laterally and down plunge. This shows strong continuity in the orebody, adding to Kibali’s reserve base and extending its production life. These findings build confidence in the mine’s long-term viability without expanding its physical footprint, supporting future planning and investment.

2. How does Kibali contribute to the local DRC economy?

Since operations began, Kibali has contributed over $6.3 billion to the DRC economy. Around $3.1 billion has gone to local contractors and service providers. Satellite pits are operated by Congolese businesses, while more than 700 companies benefit from transparent procurement programs and capacity building. The mine plays a key role in job creation and local infrastructure.

3. How much of Kibali’s power comes from renewables?

With the 16 MW solar plant now fully operational, 85% of Kibali’s power is renewable. For six months a year, the mine runs entirely on solar and hydropower. This helps cut emissions and fuel costs while improving reliability. Barrick's approach sets an example for how mining operations in Africa can transition to clean energy sources.

4. What are Barrick’s conservation efforts at Kibali?

Barrick partners with African Parks and ICNC to protect biodiversity in the region. In 2023, they reintroduced 16 white rhinos to Garamba National Park. Plans for 2025 include relocating 64 more rhinos. This initiative supports species recovery and highlights how mining companies can lead conservation projects that restore and protect local ecosystems.

5. What social programs are active around Kibali?

Barrick supports communities through its 0.3% development fund, which has already financed 44 infrastructure and education projects. 41 of those are now complete. Another $4.8 million has been invested through the Cahier des Charges program. Projects include schools, clinics, and clean water access, all built with long-term benefit to local communities in mind.