Ouagadougou: The 6th edition of the West Africa Mining Week (WAMW) 2024 commenced on Thursday with discussions centered on strategies for developing critical minerals in Burkina Faso and the wider African region. The event, held under the theme “Critical Minerals: What Development Strategies for African Countries?” attracted participants from several African nations, including Chad, Niger, Ivory Coast, and Congo Brazzaville.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Mines, and Quarries, Yacouba Zabré Gouba, who delivered a speech on behalf of President Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso’s mining sector has faced significant challenges due to the ongoing security situation. However, it remains a vital contributor to the nation’s economy, with gold production contributing 13% of GDP and 79.2% of export revenues in 2022-2023. Gouba emphasized the need to shift focus towards critical minerals, which are essential for modern infrastructure, renewable energy technologies, and digital devices.
The conference featured presentations on the strategic importance of these minerals and the potential reforms within Burkina Faso’s mining sector, including the adoption of a new mining code. Activities during the week include business-to-business meetings, thematic discussions, and exhibitions.
