On 8 October 2023, AOW – Investing in African Energy announced a significant relocation of its annual event to Accra, Ghana, for its 2025 edition. This decision was made public at the opening session of the ongoing 2024 event in Cape Town, underscoring AOW’s dedication to enhancing its impact on the African energy landscape. Ghana’s Minister of Energy, Herbert Krapa, expressed great enthusiasm for hosting AOW, highlighting the country’s robust democracy and stable environment as essential elements that make Ghana a suitable “safe haven” for investment. He extended an invitation to industry participants to explore Ghana’s burgeoning opportunities in various segments of the energy sector, particularly oil and gas exploration and production, as well as related infrastructure and services.
The move to Ghana follows extensive discussions with industry stakeholders who expressed interest in a renewed approach to the event, aimed at benefiting a wider array of African nations. Paul Sinclair, CEO of Sankofa Events, the organizers behind AOW, explained that the decision came from a collaborative spirit aimed at expanding the event’s reach and fostering new partnerships. By relocating to Ghana, AOW aims to enhance its value proposition to the African energy sector, enabling meaningful dialogues and collaborations that support investment and growth.
Ghana’s stable political climate and flourishing energy sector are pivotal factors that position it as an ideal host for the next iteration of AOW. The Ghanaian government’s unwavering support for the event demonstrates its recognition of AOW’s potential to catalyze investment and opportunities throughout Africa. Krapa reiterated this commitment, assuring that the Ghanaian government would work to preserve AOW’s pan-African focus, bringing together governments, national oil companies, regulators, and private sector entities from across the continent to share insights and experiences. The collaborative environment fostered by AOW reflects a collective ambition toward an inclusive and sustainable energy future for Africa.
This strategic shift towards Accra also signifies a broader commitment to empowering Africa in shaping its energy destiny. As AOW gears up for its debut in Ghana in 2025, the primary focus will be on facilitating partnerships, driving investment, and reinforcing Africa’s role on the global energy stage. The move is founded on the understanding that a united and collaborative approach is essential in addressing the continent’s energy challenges and opportunities, thus fostering an environment that encourages innovation and development.
Owned by Sankofa Events, AOW: Investing in African Energy is positioned as Africa’s premier oil, gas, and energy gathering, where industry leaders converge to discuss policies, share discoveries, secure investments, and influence the future of Africa’s energy landscape. The forthcoming event will take place from 7 – 10 October 2024 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC 2), emphasizing the continuity and ongoing relevance of AOW in addressing contemporary issues faced within the energy sector.
In summary, AOW’s move to Accra represents a pivotal moment for the African energy sector, reflecting a desire for deeper collaboration, increased investment, and sustainable growth. The commitment from both the Ghanaian government and industry stakeholders highlights a shared vision of a thriving energy future that not only serves today’s needs but also empowers future generations across the continent. As the industry prepares for this transformative shift, the focus remains on harnessing the continent’s vast energy potential effectively and sustainably, ensuring Africa takes a leading role in its energy journey.
