B2Gold Maintains Full Operations at Fekola Amid Workers’ Strike

B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO; NYSE: BTG) assured investors that operations at its Fekola mine complex in Mali remain unaffected by a seven-day workers’ strike that began on November 29, 2024. The company confirmed that the mine’s mill is running at full capacity and reiterated its expectation to meet the lower end of its annual production guidance of 420,000 to 450,000 ounces of gold for 2024.

The strike, organized by a faction of Fekola employees, stems from disciplinary actions B2Gold initiated against workers involved in disruptive activities earlier this year, including illegal slowdowns and a sit-in at the mine’s management office in August. While these actions temporarily impacted productivity, the company emphasized its adherence to Malian labor laws and its employee code of conduct in addressing the issue. B2Gold noted that participation in the strike is not mandatory under Malian legislation, and minimum services have been maintained to ensure operational continuity.

B2Gold highlighted its commitment to constructive engagement with the Fekola workers union, inviting dialogue to resolve outstanding grievances. The company emphasized its well-established procedures for handling employee concerns, which include structured communication platforms with union representatives. Throughout the strike, B2Gold underscored its commitment to the safety, security, and well-being of its employees, while continuing its focus on sustainable and responsible mining practices that benefit local communities and the Malian government.

Simultaneously, B2Gold is advancing its collaboration with Mali’s government under the Memorandum of Agreement signed in September 2024. The agreement outlines steps to obtain necessary permits for the Fekola Regional project, located 25 kilometers north of the current Fekola mine. Upon permit approval, mining operations at Fekola Regional are expected to begin in early 2025, with plans to truck ore to the Fekola mill. The expansion is projected to add 80,000 to 100,000 ounces of annual gold production, further strengthening B2Gold’s operational profile.

B2Gold reaffirmed its strong partnership with the Malian government, underscoring the mutual benefits generated by the Fekola mine, including contributions to the state, local communities, and the workforce. The company’s commitment to transparency, legal compliance, and long-term sustainability remains central to its strategy as it navigates the challenges posed by the ongoing labor action.

Shares of B2Gold closed unchanged, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s ability to manage disruptions and maintain its production targets while advancing growth initiatives.