JSE-listed AngloGold Ashanti has confirmed that it will suspend mining activities at its Cerro Vanguardia mine, in Argentina, amid countrywide restrictions on travel and border closings, which are expected to continue until the end of March, as a result of the global Covid-19 crisis.
The gold miner highlights, however, that there have been no Covid-19 cases at the mine.
While mining activities are halted, safety and environmental monitoring activities will continue.
Plans are being developed to help regain delayed production once mining operations resume.
AngloGold also points out that it remains in a state of high alert and preparedness to deal with the global challenge presented by the Covid-19 outbreak.
It has created heightened awareness around the Covid-19 virus and steps to prevent its spread.
The company has a multidisciplinary Covid-19 taskforce directing its global response to the crisis.
Each office and site has emergency preparedness plans in place, developed in line with national protocols and plans.
The company says its first aim is to protect employees, their families and its host communities.
The company is working with community groups and local authorities, to understand where it can provide support to healthcare systems as they gear up to manage the pandemic.
EDITED BY: Chanel de Bruyn Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor Online