Accra, Ghana – The West African Mining & Power Expo (WAMPEX) will host its 19th edition from June 3-5, 2026, relocating to the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra. This move signals the event’s significant growth and its increasing importance as a central hub for the region’s mining and power sectors, drawing an anticipated 6,000 professionals and over 250 exhibitors.
Event Expansion Reflects Industry Growth
For over 32 years, WAMPEX has paralleled the expansion of West Africa’s mining industry. The 19th edition marks its largest yet, reflecting a dynamic and growing sector. Organized by dmg events in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines and Events & Projects International Ltd (EPI), and endorsed by Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the expo serves as a crucial platform for networking, sourcing, and knowledge exchange.
The event brings together a diverse group of over 6,000 mining professionals. Attendees include procurement specialists, engineers, operations managers, and business leaders, all seeking to connect with over 250 exhibitors from 20 countries.
Focus on Local Content and Value Creation
Ing. Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, highlighted WAMPEX’s role in advancing local content development. “As the industry grows, it is essential that West African businesses, from suppliers and contractors to service providers and technology firms, are well positioned to capture a greater share of the value being created,” he stated.
Ashigbey emphasized that the future of mining in West Africa hinges on empowering local companies. “Ultimately, the future of mining in West Africa will depend on how effectively we empower local companies to lead, compete, and innovate,” he added. The event aims to showcase these capabilities and foster partnerships that unlock the region’s mining potential.
A Comprehensive Marketplace for the Mining Value Chain
Adele Tolken, Events Director at dmg events, noted the event’s long-standing impact. “WAMPEX has, for over three decades, connected mining professionals with the solutions, knowledge and partnerships that make a real difference to how they operate,” she said.
The relocation to La Palm Royal Beach Hotel is a direct response to the event’s growth. “The move to La Palm is a reflection of how much this event, and this industry has grown,” Tolken explained. The goal is for every visitor to leave with tangible impacts on their work.
West Africa’s mining sector is a significant economic driver, currently valued at USD 52.3 billion and projected to reach USD 89.1 billion by 2033. Key markets like Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria are experiencing rapid growth in gold, bauxite, iron ore, and critical minerals.
WAMPEX offers a concentrated three-day opportunity for professionals to discover suppliers and evaluate products. The exhibition covers the entire mining value chain, featuring 10 dedicated product sectors. These include exploration and surveying, mining equipment and machinery, mineral processing, energy and power supply, digital mining technologies, and safety and environmental solutions.
Global Participation and Emerging Markets
The 2026 edition will feature exhibitors from 20 countries, including a debut presence from Mongolia, France, South Korea, Belgium, Italy, Slovakia, and the United Arab Emirates. This expanded international participation underscores WAMPEX’s growing stature as a gateway to the West African mining market.
Prominent international exhibitors such as FL Smidth, GK Europe, Gekko Systems, Lyon Partner Alliance, and South African Mineral Processing Equipment will be present. They will be joined by a strong contingent of Ghanaian businesses, including Jodi Construction, PL International, Rema Tip Top, and PowerX Equipment, showcasing both global expertise and local industry strength.
High-Level Conference Sessions
Beyond the exhibition floor, the WAMPEX Conference will host over 350 senior delegates and more than 100 speakers. Over 15 sessions will address critical topics such as sustainability, investment, technological advancements, and operational performance.
The event’s significance is further underscored by its headline sponsors: AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields, and B5Plus. Newmont is the Gold Sponsor, with Silver Sponsors including Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, FL Smidth, GK Europe, Jodi Construction, and the Association of China Ghana Mining. Bronze Sponsors comprise South African Mineral Processing Equipment, Gekko Systems, Lyon Partner Alliance, PL International, Rema Tip Top, PowerX Equipment, The Bank Hospital, and Protea Coin.
Looking Ahead
With its new venue and continued growth, WAMPEX 2026 is poised to be a pivotal event for the West African mining and power industries. The expo’s focus on local content, international collaboration, and technological innovation will be key indicators of the sector’s future trajectory. Industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the event facilitates new partnerships and drives investment in this rapidly expanding market.
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