This development follows a prolonged dispute between Barrick Gold and the Malian government over tax obligations and the implementation of a new mining code. In February 2025, Barrick signed an agreement with Mali to resolve a nearly two-year-long dispute concerning its mining assets in the country. The agreement, which requires formal approval from the Malian government, involves Barrick paying 275 billion CFA francs ($438 million) to the government.  

In return, Mali has agreed to release detained employees, return seized gold, and allow the resumption of operations at the Loulo-Gounkoto mine.

Barrick Gold did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

--Reuters/ChannelAfrica--