APA – Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso) – Faced with the security crisis and political instability, the transitional government is stepping up initiatives to attract more economic operators.
More than 2,000 researchers and mining professionals are expected to attend the 5th edition of the West African Mining Week (SAMAO), which will be held in Ouagadougou from September 28 to 30 after four years of suspension, the Ministry of Mines told APA on Tuesday.
Faced with a security crisis linked to terrorism and political instability marked by two coups in one year, four of the country’s thirteen industrial mines have closed their doors.
The country is therefore looking to raise the profile of the local mining sector in order to attract new investors against a backdrop of declining gold production.
“In this context, it is imperative to maintain a good level of competitiveness in our mining sector. The aim of this event is therefore to reassure our current partners and attract other investors to this sector, which is one of the most resilient in our economy in the current context,” said Jean-Baptiste Kaboré, Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy and Chairman of the Organizing Committee.
Participants will discuss the strategy to be implemented to promote mining in order to influence the development of local economies in Africa.
“The program includes B2B meetings, exhibitions and visits to a mining site and a tourist or quarry site,” added the organizing committee chairman.
In 2020, the mining sector will account for 16% of Burkina Faso’s GDP. In 2022, Burkina Faso will rank third among West African gold producers, with 57.76 tons delivered by its mines.
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