The financing is linked to the gold miner’s ESG (environmental, social and governance) performance – specifically its carbon emissions and its commitment to promote more women into senior roles.

The company plans to sell Carlota mine in the United States and Chilean mine Franke.

The 2022 charges are 9.2% higher than this year's benchmark.

Under a state of emergency, civil liberties are suspended.

Angela Bigg, previously general manager, operations, will be the first female to lead the mine and its 1,100 employees.

The Belinga iron ore project, located in the northeast of Gabon, has been progressively assessed by Fortescue since 2018.

"In two separate trials, we’ve used blockchain to exchange data and documents digitally, improving efficiency and transparency and reducing bureaucracy, risk and red tape," says BHP chief commercial officer.