(Ecofin Agency) - On September 20, 2024, a press conference was held on the 20th floor of the SCIAM building in Abidjan to launch the first Hackathon for the Salon International des Ressources Extractives et Énergétiques (SIREXE). This Hackathon aims to foster innovation in these important sectors, organized by the Ministry of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy, and led by Mr. Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly. It targets Africa's youth and seeks to develop creative and technological solutions to challenges in the extractive industries.

During the conference, Madame AKA, Deputy Commissioner General and spokesperson for SIREXE, emphasized Ivory Coast's goal to make its mining, oil, and energy sectors central to economic growth. These three sectors will be showcased together for the first time in Africa, highlighting their interconnectedness. "SIREXE will feature panels, conferences, B2B meetings, side events, a TV newscast, and a golf tournament. However, one of the standout features will be the Hackathon," she noted.

The Hackathon will occur from November 27 to December 2, 2024, at the Parc des Expositions in Abidjan. It is open to students, startups, and companies from all backgrounds, with focus on Africans. The goal is to find innovative solutions for issues like identifying illegal mining sites, ensuring gold traceability, and collecting production and tax payment data for semi-industrial, artisanal, and quarry mines.

Participants will form teams of up to five members, with nine projects selected for competition at SIREXE—three projects from each sector (mining, oil, and energy). Registration is open until October 22, 2024. Teams will compete for a first prize of CFA10 million; second and third places will receive CFA1.5 million and CFA1 million respectively.

Beyond financial rewards, Madame AKA highlighted that the Ministry of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy seeks practical solutions. Winning projects will form direct partnerships with the Ministry and have their solutions integrated into ongoing initiatives.

Teams will be guided by six coaches from Ivorian public administration, each with over 10 years of experience in their fields. A jury of five experts with over 15 years of experience will evaluate the projects. To ensure transparency in the process, a justice commissioner will also be present.

Sebati CISSE, General Commissioner of SIREXE, stressed the importance of youth engagement in this competition. "You need to show creativity and determination. Don’t hesitate to push your limits and take risks. I am confident we will see exceptional projects that could transform these strategic sectors," he said.

SIREXE aims to become a leading platform for mining, oil, and energy stakeholders in Africa as part of Ivory Coast’'s strategy to develop these sectors into pillars of its economy. Under Ouattara’s rule, the country has been focusing on responsible resource management while promoting renewable energy development. 

This biennial trade show presents a significant opportunity to strengthen regional and international partnerships, secure funding, and showcase Ivory Coast’s potential. By bringing together political leaders, businesses, and investors around these vital topics, SIREXE positions Ivory Coast as a key player on the global stage.