Editorial:Â
The Reko Diq copper and gold project in Balochistan is more than just a mining venture—it is a national opportunity to empower local communities, boost Pakistan’s economy, and ensure long-term regional development.
Company officials recently briefed the media in Quetta and shared that production at Reko Diq is expected to begin by 2028. In the lead-up to this, around 7,500–8,000 temporary jobs will be created during the construction phase, while 4,500 permanent positions will be maintained once the mine becomes operational. In total, over 25,000 indirect job opportunities are expected to arise through supply chains, vendors, and local contractors.
While these numbers are promising, the true success of Reko Diq depends on how deeply local talent is integrated into the project. Officials highlighted a positive initiative—Balochistan-based engineers recently received international mining training through Barrick Gold’s development program. These trained professionals have now returned to serve in the project.
This initiative must be expanded. There is a vast pool of youth in Reko Diq, Chagai, and surrounding districts with potential. With the right technical education and training—both locally and abroad—this local workforce can be transformed into the backbone of Pakistan’s mineral economy.
The government and company must jointly ensure that investment in education, healthcare, and connectivity becomes part of the project’s long-term goals. Training centers, scholarships, and technical institutes should be prioritized in Balochistan.
Reko Diq is a national asset, but its real value will only be realized when the people of Balochistan are treated as equal stakeholders—not just as workers, but as partners in progress.
