South Africa’s Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe is set to headline the upcoming AOW: Investing in African Energy event, taking place from October 7-10 in Cape Town, organisers announced on Thursday.
Sankofa Events chief executive Paul Sinclair said in a statement that Mantashe’s has confirmed attendance at the four-day gathering that is expected to bring together energy experts from Africa and around the globe, focusing on developing policies, sharing discoveries and securing investments to shape the continent’s energy future.
“The participation of Mr. Mantashe reaffirms Africa’s commitment to taking ownership of its own energy destiny,” Sinclair said.
He expressed excitement about the collaboration opportunities that are expected to arise as Mantashe is due to share the stage with ministers from various nations and senior figures from the energy sector.
The AOW event is expected to attract over 1,600 senior delegates, including 80 ministers and officials from more than 70 countries, as well as representatives from over 760 companies.
Having been a regular keynote speaker at past AOW events, Mantashe’s attendance is particularly timely, given the burgeoning energy opportunities emerging across the continent.
Recent major oil and gas discoveries in the Orange Basin, located offshore South Africa and Namibia, underscore the scale and potential of these opportunities for African governments, their citizens and energy companies alike.
“The world’s energy markets are in the midst of a dynamic transition,” Sinclair said, adding that navigating this transition would require robust industry partnerships.
“Africa is demonstrating that it possesses not only vast resources but also the networks, financial innovation and determination to develop these resources for the benefit of its people and all stakeholders.”
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the AOW event, which serves as a premier conference, exhibition, and investment forum.
The gathering has over the years facilitated discussions among governments, regulators, global operators, power producers, investors and service providers, fostering collaboration to advance Africa’s energy landscape.
JN/APA