Mauritania’s extractive industries – primarily, mining and hydrocarbon exploration and production – will take center stage at the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2023 Conference & Exhibition this November, with a dedicated panel addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with diversifying and building a local mining value chain.
Leading industry experts will explore Mauritania’s role as a mining giant – a sector that accounts for nearly one-quarter of domestic GDP – as well as its long-term growth strategy.
Mauritania is the second-largest iron producer in Africa and has plans to double this production to 24 million tonnes by 2026, on the back of an ambitious strategic plan launched by national mining company, Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM). While iron ore is its most established mining industry, Mauritania is also a key producer of gold, copper and silver, and infrastructure expansion and new revenues from first gas might accelerate the mining of other minerals, such as rare earths and diamonds.
One of the primary areas of investigation will be the possibility of switching to renewable energy to successfully fulfill the mining sector’s energy demands. Participants will also look at hydrogen production plants and talk about how these technologies may power mining activities, lowering the sector’s carbon impact. The national mining firm, Societe Nationale des Investissements Miniers, is collaborating with ArcelorMittal to create the first green steel project in West Africa, a refinery near iron ore mines powered by green hydrogen. This paves the way for future innovations, especially given the mines’ closeness to green hydrogen projects, both located in the Zouerat region.
Moreover, the panel will scrutinize the ambitious expansion of Mauritanian ports, including Nouadhibou, Nouakchott, and NDiago, poised to become future extractive export hubs. These ports are being revamped in order to cater to both the mines and the oil and gas industry and decongest traffic at the Nouakchott port. The panelists will address the scope of the projects, share updates on construction advancement, and discuss how they will substantially boost Mauritania’s export capacity, enhancing its position in the global market.
The esteemed panelists will dissect strategies aimed at shielding Mauritania from the inherent price fluctuations in the extractive industries. This includes diversifying production beyond iron ore, advocating for in-country refining to add value to crude exports, improving logistics infrastructure, including roads and ports, and attracting foreign investments crucial for advancing both the mining and energy sectors.
Engaging local players in the sector is paramount to achieving sustainable economic growth. More than 60% of the Mauritanian population is under 25 years old.
By promoting the employment of local youth, the mining industry not only contributes to sustainable economic growth but also plays an essential role in skill development and strengthening local communities. As such, the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2023 event will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss partnerships and collaborations that promote local participation and drive economic prosperity.
The MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2023 will feature dynamic panel discussions, enlightening keynote addresses, and interactive sessions where participants can share insights, experiences, and best practices. The outcomes of these discussions are poised to make a significant contribution to the economic growth and sustainability of Mauritania.
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