Barrick reclaims Mali gold mine after high-stakes dispute – charges dropped, restart ahead

Barrick Mining has just regained control of one of its most important West African mines after a tense two-year standoff with the Malian government. The Loulo-Gounkoto complex once delivered around 15% of Barrick’s total output, and the dispute escalated to the point where four employees were detained and an arrest warrant was issued for former CEO Mark Bristow.

With all charges now dropped and operations expected to restart, the resolution comes at a pivotal time as investors push the company to reassess its global asset base.

Here’s what this deal means for Barrick, for Mali – and for gold producers in high-risk jurisdictions.