QUETTA; Zarrar Jamali, Country Manager of Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), has said that the Reko Diq project is among the world’s largest copper and gold mines, and once it goes into production, it will mark a new chapter of development for both Balochistan and Pakistan.
He was speaking at a special ceremony held in honour of young engineers who recently returned from Argentina after completing an 18-month on-the-job training program at Barrick Gold’s Veladero mine under the International Graduate Development Program (IGDP). These engineers, hailing from various districts of Balochistan, were awarded shields in recognition of their achievement.
Highlighting RDMC’s commitment to local communities, Jamali said the company, under the leadership of Barrick Gold Corporation, is providing essential services such as clean water, healthcare, and education in the region. He reaffirmed that the target is to commence production from the project by the end of 2028.
Hino Steeden, Head of HR at RDMC, noted that the IGDP is a key initiative aimed at equipping Balochistan’s youth with world-class training and integrating them into the mining sector. He added that in 2024, an additional 18 young engineers from 11 districts of Balochistan were sent to Zambia and Argentina for further training.
Steeden also revealed that 75% of RDMC’s permanent workforce hails from Balochistan, with 65% belonging specifically to Chagai district. Additionally, women comprise 14% of the company’s staff, underscoring RDMC’s commitment to gender inclusion.
Speaking on project details, Communications Manager Samia Shah said the Reko Diq project is a joint venture between Barrick Gold Corporation and the Government of Pakistan, with Barrick holding a 50% stake. The remaining 50% is divided between three federal institutions (25%) and the Government of Balochistan (25%), which includes a 10% free-carried interest.
She stated that the mine has an estimated life of at least 37 years. During the construction phase alone, the project will create 7,500 jobs, followed by 3,500 long-term employment opportunities. Additionally, more than 25,000 indirect jobs are expected to be generated through the project’s economic impact.
Samia Shah emphasized that 90% of the value addition of minerals extracted from Reko Diq will take place within Balochistan. So far, the Government of Balochistan has received $17.5 million in royalties, and $7.2 million has been invested in social development initiatives.
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In the education sector, seven schools are currently operational under RDMC’s development programs, with 403 children enrolled. Moreover, 577 youth have received vocational training in various trades, further contributing to regional capacity building.
