As discoveries of extractive resources multiply and Côte d’Ivoire, along with Africa as a whole, is poised to play a leading role in the energy transition with its critical minerals, SIREXE is emerging as a catalyst for investments. It establishes itself as an all-in-one platform where all extractive sectors can come together to exchange and collaborate.
Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire, is set to host a landmark event in the extractive and energy resources domain with the inaugural edition of the International Exhibition of Extractive and Energy Resources (SIREXE). Scheduled from November 27 to December 2, 2024, this event will take place under the high patronage of Ivorian Prime Minister, at the Abidjan Exhibition Park, bringing together global leaders in the mining, oil, and energy sectors.
A Unique Exchange Platform
Under the theme “Sustainable Development of Extractive and Energy Industries: What Policies and Strategies?”, SIREXE positions itself as a unique exchange platform, aiming to facilitate interactions between actors from the North and South. Over 7,000 m² of exhibition space will host more than 300 exhibitors, with around 20,000 visitors expected over the seven-day event.
This initiative by the Ivorian government aims not only to stimulate national and international private investments but also to promote an equitable distribution of wealth generated by extractive resources, a pressing issue in public debates. The exhibition aspires to become the ideal platform for North-North and North-South exchanges, facilitating collaboration among various sector stakeholders.
Hydrocarbons, Minerals, Electricity: The Exhibition for All Extractive Industries
SIREXE 2024 stands out for its integrated approach, with the goal of bringing together the mining, energy, and hydrocarbons sectors under one roof. The event is designed to offer a comprehensive overview of extractive and energy industries, emphasizing exchanges and strategic partnerships. Participants will have the opportunity to discover priority national and sub-regional projects, strengthen sub-regional and international partnerships, and get acquainted with recent technological advancements while laying the groundwork for mobilizing essential financing for the extractive sectors.
For this first edition, international organizations, ministry representatives, financial institutions, and embassies are expected. Additionally, the Abidjan Exhibition Park will welcome industrial companies, junior miners, operators, logistics providers, producers, and traders in the mining sector. “It will be an opportunity to discover the latest innovations and technologies for responsible and efficient resource exploitation,” confided a source close to the organization. The energy sector will also be well represented, with producers, distributors, equipment manufacturers, energy efficiency experts, and solar energy specialists participating as exhibitors, panelists, or attendees. The oil and gas industry players, from exploration to distribution, including production and refining, will also be present. A dedicated space will be available for banks, insurance companies, training institutions, telecommunications services, and transport. Start-ups and artisans will also be featured.
Unlocking Potential Through Collaboration
The first edition of SIREXE 2024, opening soon in Abidjan, comes at a particularly favorable time for Côte d’Ivoire and Africa at large. This period is marked by significant discoveries of mineral resources, placing Côte d’Ivoire, the leading economy of WAEMU, in the spotlight.
Recently, oil and gas fields such as Baleine and Kalao have been discovered, with investment projections exceeding $15 billion. National oil production is also expected to rise to around 200,000 barrels per day by 2027, up from the current 60,000, positioning the country as a future oil giant on the continent. This potential remains largely untapped, as evidenced by the recent discovery of the Dianra Séguéla gold deposit in the northwest, which ranks as the third-largest gold mine in West Africa.
These developments are promising not only for the creation of thousands of jobs for young people but also for generating substantial financial resources, thereby boosting the country’s economic and social development program, assured the President.
This dynamic is not isolated to Côte d’Ivoire. It is also observed in other African countries where significant reserves of critical minerals have been recently discovered or identified. However, investments seem to lag, highlighting the importance of this biennial event to catalyze the necessary acceleration. The event will feature presentations of national and regional priority projects, discussions on sustainable development policies and strategies, and sessions promoting local content and professions related to the extractive and energy industries.
Click here for more information and discover the SIREXE 2024
