The 19th edition of the West African Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX) officially opens today in Accra, bringing together thousands of mining professionals, policymakers, investors, equipment suppliers and energy experts to discuss the future of one of Africa’s most important economic sectors.
The three-day event, being held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, is expected to attract more than 6,000 industry professionals, over 250 exhibitors and delegates from more than 25 countries, reaffirming Ghana’s position as a leading hub for mining investment and policy dialogue in West Africa.
Organised by dmg events in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines and Events & Projects International Ltd (EPI), and endorsed by Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, WAMPEX has evolved over more than three decades into the region’s premier mining and power exhibition and conference.
This year’s conference is centred on the theme: “How Can Responsible Mining and Power Accelerate West Africa’s Sustainable Development?”, a subject expected to shape conversations on the continent’s quest to balance mineral wealth, environmental stewardship and economic transformation.
The opening ceremony is expected to feature Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, alongside other high-profile ministers, including Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, Nigeria’s Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Oladele Henry Alake, and Mali’s Minister for Energy and Water, Tiémoko Traoré.
Over the next three days, delegates are expected to focus on several critical issues shaping the future of mining and energy development in the region.
Among the foremost topics will be the growing importance of critical minerals and how West African countries can position themselves to benefit from the global energy transition. Discussions are expected to examine strategies for attracting investment into lithium, graphite and other minerals essential for clean energy technologies.
Another major area of focus will be mining technology, innovation and artificial intelligence, with industry leaders exploring how digital tools, automation and smart mining solutions can improve productivity, efficiency and safety across mining operations.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards are also expected to feature prominently, particularly issues relating to responsible mining, environmental sustainability, mine reclamation and community development. Stakeholders will discuss how mining companies can strengthen their social licence to operate while contributing meaningfully to local economies.
Investment and financing of mining projects across West Africa will form another key pillar of discussions, as governments and industry players seek innovative approaches to mobilising capital amid changing global economic conditions. Fiscal regimes, state participation and strategies to improve investor confidence are expected to receive considerable attention.
Delegates will also deliberate on energy solutions for the mining industry, examining how reliable, affordable and cleaner energy sources can support mining operations while advancing broader sustainability goals.
Other important issues expected to dominate the conference include mine-to-market traceability, exploration and geological development, local content participation, supply chain resilience, mining security in the Sahel region and the role of regional collaboration in unlocking the full potential of West Africa’s mineral resources.
Industry leaders believe the gathering comes at a crucial time for the region’s mining sector, which continues to attract global attention amid rising demand for minerals required for industrialisation and the global transition to cleaner energy systems.
With a packed programme of ministerial dialogues, technical sessions, exhibitions, business-to-business meetings and networking events, WAMPEX 2026 is expected to generate fresh partnerships, investment opportunities and policy recommendations that could shape the future trajectory of mining and power development across West Africa.
By: Christian Kpesese
