By Lake Zone Watch Writer
Tuwakomboe Paralegal Organisation (TPO) of Tarime District has given Barrick North Mara Gold Mine a clean bill of health, noting that the companys unwavering support to communities is a clear testament to respect for human rights.
TPO Director Bony Matto told reporters in Tarime last week that the gold mine has witnessed impressive performance in recent in the years, with fewer complaints from villages surrounding the gold mine, which is evidence that violations of human rights have been stemmed.
“I speak from the bottom of my heart. There is no violation of human rights at North Mara Gold Mine and I have reasons to prove my point,” said Matto, hinting that the gold mine guards no longer carry weapons, and lately, no villager has complained of being rough up by anyone from the mine.
He, however, admitted that there used to be various complaints lodged against the mine in the past, but that the situation has completely changed for the better, thanks to remarkable improvements that include numerous communities supports through CSR funding.
He said human rights is a multifaceted domain and some of its aspects like the provision of potable water to the community, health services, education and environmental protection, which the gold mine has so far accomplished, are a clear proof that the investor has the wellbeing of communities at heart.
Human rights and social services are intertwined, the rights watchdog said, stressing that the huge water project at Nyamongo from which villagers can draw clean water, showcases the gold mines care for their lives.
On education, Matto said the gold mine has improved the learning environment for many primary and secondary public schools.
“The right to education is fundamental and in recognizing this fact, North Mara has injected massive funding into the education infrastructure. I sincerely congratulate them,” he said.
Addressing the issue of environmental protection, he said the bitter past, during which people complained about pollution of water sources, including River Tigithe , is now over.
He implored communities to keep a watchful eye on intruders and vandals sabotaging the mines operations and infrastructure, urging them to help protect all that has been achieved for the benefit of the entire district of Tarime.