Barrick North Mara rescues 22 flooded villagers in Tarime

MARA: AN emergency team from Barrick North Mara successfully rescued 22 people, including children, who were trapped by rising floodwaters in Matongo Village, Tarime District in Mara Region.

Equipped with modern tools and expertise, the team carried out the operation efficiently, ensuring that everyone was rescued safely after heavy rains forced some villagers to climb trees to escape the floods, according to Tarime District Commissioner Major Edward Gowele.

“We managed to save everyone who was surrounded by water, and there were no deaths or injuries. We must commend the mine workers for their exceptional work in collaboration with the district and regional rescue teams,”

Major Gowele told journalists yesterday, highlighting strong community relations between the mine and local residents.

He explained that the Barrick North Mara rescue team, working in partnership with the government through Twiga Minerals, responded immediately after receiving the emergency report. The team brought boats, vehicles, and modern rescue equipment to the scene.

The operation began at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday and continued until 6:00 p.m., focusing on the Mashambani area, which hosts camps for farmers and livestock keepers.

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“I was personally present throughout the operation, alongside the Security Committee and the district and regional rescue teams. The mine provided modern equipment, which was vital in ensuring residents’ safety. We have every reason to thank the mine workers for their outstanding effort,” said Major Gowele.

After being rescued, residents received first aid and were assisted in returning safely to their homes across the district. “After evacuating them, we checked if anyone needed medical attention. Most were hungry, so I ordered that they be given porridge and water,” he added.

Chairperson of Matongo Village, Mr Charles Ryoba expressed gratitude to both the District Commissioner and Barrick North Mara for the swift response.

“We are deeply thankful to Barrick North Mara for acting quickly and arriving just in time. This demonstrates the strong relationship between our community and the mine,” Mr Ryoba said.

He also commended the Tarime District and Mara Region rescue teams for th