More than 6,000 mining professionals from across the world are converging in Accra today as the 19th edition of the West African Mining & Power Expo (WAMPEX) officially opens at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.
The three-day event, which has grown into the largest gathering of mining and power stakeholders in West Africa, comes at a time when Ghana continues to cement its position as one of Africa’s leading mining destinations and the continent’s top gold producer.
Organised by dmg events in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines and Events & Projects International Ltd (EPI), WAMPEX 2026 is expected to host over 250 exhibitors from 20 countries, bringing together mining executives, engineers, procurement specialists, investors, equipment suppliers, policymakers and technology providers.
The event marks a significant milestone for the industry, reflecting both the growing scale of mining activity across West Africa and the increasing importance of Ghana as a gateway for mining investment and innovation on the continent.
For Ghana, the significance of WAMPEX extends beyond the exhibition halls.
Mining remains one of the country’s most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to export earnings, government revenues and employment. Gold continues to dominate the country’s mineral exports, while investments in bauxite, manganese, lithium and other critical minerals are creating new opportunities for economic diversification and industrial development.
Against this backdrop, WAMPEX serves as a strategic platform for connecting local businesses with global suppliers, investors and technology providers. It also provides an opportunity for Ghanaian companies to showcase their capabilities and strengthen participation in the mining value chain.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Ken Ashigbey, described the event as an important platform for advancing local content development across West Africa’s mining sector.
According to him, the long-term success of the industry will depend on the ability of local businesses to capture more value from mining activities and compete effectively within the global marketplace.
Beyond the exhibition floor, the conference component of WAMPEX will bring together more than 350 senior delegates and over 100 speakers to discuss issues ranging from sustainability and responsible mining practices to technological innovation, investment opportunities and operational efficiency.
The discussions are expected to be particularly relevant as mining companies across Africa face growing pressure to improve environmental performance, increase local participation and leverage digital technologies to boost productivity.
Industry analysts note that the event comes at a pivotal moment for the regional mining sector. With rising global demand for gold and critical minerals needed for the energy transition, West Africa is attracting increased investor interest and competition for new projects.
For Ghana, this presents an opportunity not only to expand mineral production but also to deepen local value addition, strengthen supply chains and position itself as a centre for mining services and expertise within the region.
As thousands of delegates gather in Accra over the next three days, WAMPEX 2026 is expected to generate new business partnerships, investment discussions and knowledge-sharing opportunities that could shape the future of mining in Ghana and across West Africa.
With participation from countries spanning Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, the event reinforces Ghana’s growing reputation as a leading destination for mining investment and a critical hub for conversations about the future of the industry.
