Reko Diq Project to Usher in New Era of Development for Balochistan and Pakistan: RDMC Country Manager

Quetta:Zarar Jamali, Country Manager of Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), has stated that the Reko Diq project is one of the world’s largest copper and gold mines and will mark a new chapter of development for both Balochistan and Pakistan once it becomes operational.

He made these remarks while addressing a ceremony held in honor of young engineers who recently returned to Pakistan after completing an 18-month on-the-job training at Barrick’s Veladero Mine in Argentina, under the International Graduate Development Program (IGDP). These engineers belong to various districts of Balochistan and were also awarded shields upon successful completion of their training.

Jamali emphasized that under the leadership of Barrick Gold Corporation, RDMC is also providing local communities with clean water, healthcare, and education facilities. The company aims to begin production by the end of 2028.

Hino Steeden, RDMC’s Head of HR, said that the IGDP is a significant step towards equipping Balochistan’s youth with international-standard training and integrating them into the mining sector. In 2024, another 18 young engineers from 11 districts of Balochistan were sent to Zambia and Argentina under this program. He further mentioned that 75% of RDMC’s permanent workforce is from Balochistan, with 65% from Chagai district alone, and 14% of employees are women.

RDMC’s Communication Manager, Samia Shah, provided key details of the project, stating that Reko Diq is a joint venture between Barrick Gold Corporation and Pakistan. Barrick holds a 50% stake, while the remaining 50% is split between three federal entities (25%) and the Government of Balochistan (25%), which includes a 10% free-carried interest.

The mine has an expected life of at least 37 years. During its construction phase, the project is expected to create 7,500 jobs, and 3,500 long-term positions will be available afterward. Indirectly, over 25,000 employment opportunities are anticipated.

Samia added that 90% of the value addition of extracted minerals will take place within Balochistan. So far, the Government of Balochistan has received \$17.5 million in royalties, and \$7.2 million has been spent on social development initiatives.

In the education sector, seven schools are currently operational, providing education to 403 students, while 577 young individuals have received vocational training in various skills.