West Africa has emerged as a promising region for mining investment due to its rich mineral resources, improving regulatory environment, and growing infrastructure. Here’s why West Africa should be the next investment hub for mining:
- Regional Integration: West African countries are part of regional economic communities like ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), which aims to facilitate trade and investment across borders.
- Global Interest and Investment: West Africa has attracted significant interest from international mining companies and foreign governments, particularly from China, Europe, and North America. These partnerships bring in not just capital but also technology and expertise.
- Beyond Traditional Minerals: West Africa is not only about gold and bauxite. The region also has potential for rare earth elements, lithium, and other critical minerals essential for the global transition to green energy and technology.
- Diverse and Rich Reserves: West Africa is home to a vast array of minerals, including gold, bauxite, iron ore, diamonds, and manganese. Countries like Ghana, Mali, and Burkina Faso are among the top gold producers globally, while Guinea holds some of the world's largest bauxite reserves.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and ports, are making it easier to access remote mining areas and export minerals. Countries like Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire have invested heavily in infrastructure that supports the mining sector.
- Proximity to Global Markets: West Africa’s location along the Atlantic Ocean provides strategic access to major global markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. This proximity reduces shipping times and costs, making it easier to export minerals.
West African Mining Projects
WAMPEX – over 30 years as the major mining forum, attracting exhibitors to Ghana from across the world.
Burkina Faso
Projects Value = $430 Million
• Kiaka Gold Project – Ongoing
Nigeria
Projects Value = $604 Million
• Segilola Gold Project – Operation
• Agbaja Iron Ore Project – Upcoming
Ghana
Projects Value = $153 Million
• Ewoyaa Lithium Project – Upcoming
• Tarkwa Mine – Operation
• Asanko Gold Mine – Ongoing
Cote d’Ivoire (Ivor y Coast)
Projects Value = $988 Million
• Doropo Gold Project – Upcoming
• Lafigue Gold Project – Ongoing
• Yaouré Gold Project – Complete
Mali
Projects Value = $569 Million
• Goulamina Lithium Project – Ongoing
• Bougouni Lithium Project – Upcoming
• Anaconda Area – Upcoming
• Kobada Gold Project – Upcoming
