West African Mining and Power Expo Gathers Ministers to Tackle Sector Challenges

Ministers from Nigeria, Mali, and Ghana will address the 19th West African Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX). The event is scheduled for 3-5 June 2026 in Accra. WAMPEX is a significant gathering for the West African mining industry. Ghana's Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has officially endorsed the expo.

Honourable Minister for Solid Minerals Development of Nigeria, Mr. Oladele Henry Alake, is attending. So too are Ghana's Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John A. Jinapor, and Mali's Minister for Energy and Water, Pr. Tiémoko Traoré. Their presence highlights the growing importance of WAMPEX as a platform for government dialogue. It addresses key policy, investment, and operational challenges. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, through its Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), will participate fully. They see WAMPEX as vital for Ghana's mining sector. This involvement underscores the government's commitment to discussions on industry development.

The expo's theme is "How can responsible mining and power accelerate West Africa's sustainable development?". This theme addresses urgent issues. Discussions will cover fiscal regimes and state ownership of mines. Critical mineral strategy is another key topic. Mine-to-market traceability will be examined. Community development and security in the Sahel region are also on the agenda. Financing the mining and energy sectors in West Africa is a central focus. The programme includes panel discussions and keynote speeches. It will take place across three parallel conference halls. This allows delegates to engage with relevant topics.

Adele Tolken, Events Director at dmg events, stated that the high-level government participation reflects the event's importance. She noted the combination of policy dialogue and a large exhibitor show floor. This creates a valuable experience for those in the West African mining sector. The Ghana Chamber of Mines, represented by its President Michael Edem Akafia, will chair the opening ceremony. Other notable speakers include Joshua Mortoti, CEO of Vortex Resources. Dr. Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, will moderate sessions. Catherine Kuupol Kuutor from Gold Fields Ghana will close the second day.

Over 250 exhibitors from 26 countries will showcase their products and services. Seven countries are exhibiting at WAMPEX for the first time. These include Mongolia, France, South Korea, Belgium, Italy, Slovakia, and the UAE. Local exhibitors represent 51% of the total. International exhibitors make up 49%. This balance shows WAMPEX's role in connecting local businesses with global partners. The event will also feature an Innovation Hub. Live equipment demonstrations are planned. A gala dinner will conclude the event.

The participation of these high-ranking officials is a significant indicator of the region's focus on its extractive industries. The discussions at WAMPEX are expected to shape future investment decisions and policy frameworks. This could influence the flow of capital into Ghana and neighbouring economies. The emphasis on sustainable development and responsible mining suggests a shift towards more ethical and environmentally conscious practices. This will be crucial for attracting international investment. The expo also highlights job creation potential within the sector. Many job opportunities are linked to the mining and power industries.