Barrick Reaches Union Deal at Mali Gold Mine, Averting Strike

Barrick Mining has reached a new collective bargaining agreement with unions representing workers at its Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex in western Mali, bringing an end to a strike threat at the major mining operation.

A Barrick spokesperson confirmed that the company had signed a new agreement with unions representing workers at Loulo-Gounkoto. Union official Bani Sacko also confirmed that planned strike action had been called off following an agreement reached after a meeting on 21 September.

The unions had submitted 15 demands, with earlier strike notices linked to issues including overtime payments, reimbursement of mission-related expenses and the implementation of existing labour agreements.

The agreement also covers workers associated with Somilo SA and Gounkoto SA, while a separate dispute involving Food & Events Africa, a catering and support services contractor, had also contributed to concerns over possible industrial action.

The resolution removes an immediate labour disruption risk at one of Mali’s major gold operations, although the agreement comes against a backdrop of continuing tensions between mining companies, workers and the Malian authorities over the sector.

Mali is one of Africa’s leading gold producers and has increased government involvement in the mining industry under a 2023 mining code designed to raise state revenues from the country’s mineral resources.

Barrick previously suspended operations at Loulo-Gounkoto in January 2025 after tensions with Mali’s military-led government escalated. The authorities had arrested company employees and issued an arrest warrant for former Barrick CEO Mark Bristow over alleged financial offences.

The company and the Malian government subsequently resolved a broader dispute over profit-sharing and control of the Loulo-Gounkoto complex in November 2025, following roughly two years of negotiations.

The latest labour agreement provides greater clarity for operations at the complex after unions had warned of industrial action later in September. It also highlights the continuing importance of labour relations as Mali seeks to increase state participation and revenue from its gold sector.

Source: Reuters