Burkina Faso is preparing to welcome the 7th edition of the West Africa Mining Activities Week (SAMAO 2025) from September 25 to 27, 2025, in its capital, Ouagadougou. The event, themed “The Challenges of Mine Rehabilitation and Closure in Africa: What New Life for Local Communities?”, is expected to attract over 2,000 participants from across the region and the world.
The country’s booming gold sector provides a backdrop to the gathering. In 2024, Burkina Faso produced approximately 60.8 tonnes of gold, up from 56.8 tonnes in 2023 and 57.6 tonnes in 2022. The overwhelming majority of this gold was exported, underlining the sector’s central role in the nation’s export earnings.
According to Doulaye Sanou, Secretary General of the Burkinabe Ministry of Mines, Burkina Faso’s mining sector shows “resilient activity with strong socioeconomic indicators,” positioning the country as a key player on Africa’s mining stage. As of the end of 2024, Burkina Faso held 22 valid industrial exploitation permits, including 13 industrial mines in production.
Gold production has grown dramatically over the years, from just 5.6 tonnes in 2008 to 60.77 tonnes in 2024, generating 567.2 billion CFA francs (around 1.02 billion dollars) in direct revenue to the state budget. Beyond direct contributions, the mining industry has also significantly supported the development of local communities.
As Burkina Faso takes center stage for WAMW 2025, the country’s impressive gold production and its strategic role in Africa’s mining industry set the stage for discussions on sustainable mining, community development, and the future of local economies.
