By Lake Zone Watch Writer
Tarime District Council is implementing an array of projects with funds from Barrick North Mara Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), aimed at solving a shortage of desks in public schools, building infrastructure and improving health services.
Speaking to reporters over the weekend, the Council’s Chairperson Mr Simon Kiles said more than 6,000 desks for primary schools and 4,000 tables and chairs for secondary schools, will be purchased in the current plan which involves 101 projects worth 9bn/-.
“Implementation of the projects is in progress, we’ve also set aside a certain amount for the construction of 10 laboratories,” said Mr Kiles who doubles as the councilor for Nyamwaga ward.
He said the council has decided that the CSR money should as well benefit health services especially mother and child care at public health centres.
Other projects lined up for implementation include, water supply, roads and construction of a new bus terminal at Nyamwaga area which is the council’s headquarters, according to Mr Kiles.
Besides, building a garbage dump at Sirari, a township bordering neighbouring Kenya is also part of the plan, Mr Kiles stated, adding that a small gold market will be built at Nyamongo area, near North Mara Gold Mine.
He thanked the gold mine for disbursing the CSR money promptly and without strings.
“North Mara Gold mine is very efficient when it comes to fulfilling its responsibilities. We’ve never encountered any hurdles and are very grateful,’’ said Mr Kiles.
During the previous implementation of its CSR, North Mara disbursed 7bn/- to Tarime District Council. The Goldmine also pays service levy to the council and royalty to some villages surrounding the mine.
North Mara gold mine is jointly owned by Barrick Gold and the government of Tanzania, through Twiga Minerals Corporation.