AngloGold Ashanti, the South African based mining giant with operations across the globe, is shutting down mining operations across the globe in response to lockdown directives from the host countries.
In a release, the company noted that operations in Argentina, South Africa, and Brazil have shut down operations in compliance with national directives on lockdowns to stem the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19).
“On March 21, 2020, following the Argentinian government’s decision to impose a nationwide lockdown (quarantine) until 31 March 2020, including temporary travel restrictions, border closings and suspension of most industries, Cerro Vanguardia S.A. (CVSA) was required to temporarily suspend mining activities.
On March 23, 2020, the South African government announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown, effective from midnight on 26 March 2020, resulting in the temporary suspension of mining activities of the company’s South African operations particularly Mponeng, and the partial suspension of mining activities at Mine Waste Solutions and Surface Operations.
On March 26, 2020, the State of Goiás, in Brazil, extended a set of restrictions on the operation of non-essential business, to include mining. These restrictions are set to run through 4 April 2020. Mineração Serra Grande S.A. will temporarily suspend its operations. In each case, the suspension of mining activities will continue for the period during which the respective restrictions remain in force,” the statement said.
Other operations still active
It added that the rest of AngloGold Ashanti’s mines in its diversified portfolio of 14 assets in nine countries, continue to operate. For the sites where production has been suspended, plans for a safe and smooth ramp-up, and for safely regaining part of the delayed production, are being developed, the statement noted.
“We have been proactive in positioning ourselves to respond to the impact of the outbreak,” said CEO Kelvin Dushnisky. “We will respond quickly and work in deep partnership with stakeholders whilst doing our part in fighting this global pandemic.”
Worries of prolonged closures
The pandemic, if prolonged, would have a wide range of impacts, including the direct consequences of the virus on the health of employees and communities, but also the consequent restrictions to travel and work put in place by governments to slow its spread.
“There would also be other consequences, including temporary mine site closures, and the reduced ability to effectively move people, supplies and equipment to sites amongst others. These may cause production interruptions or delays to projects. These risks are being continually evaluated and we […]
