On Thursday, June 19, the École Burkinabè des Affaires (EBA) hosted a major conference addressing the critical challenges of the supply chain in the mining industry. Organized by the fifth cohort of the Professional Master’s in Supply Chain and Procurement Management (MSCA), the event brought together students, industry professionals, and logistics experts in the multipurpose hall of the Ouagarinter consular campus. The theme, “The Mining Industry and Supply Chain Challenges in a Landlocked Country Context,” highlighted the specific hurdles faced by Burkina Faso, a landlocked country, in optimizing its mining supply chain.
A Conference with Ambitious Goals
The main goal of the conference was to unpack the logistical challenges specific to the mining sector in geographically constrained environments. To do so, speakers shared real-life experiences drawn from their day-to-day operations, offering a pragmatic look at field realities. The event also aimed to identify innovative and practical solutions to streamline and secure the mining supply chain while enhancing its overall performance. Finally, the conference served to raise awareness among future logisticians of the unique characteristics of mining supply chains in sub-Saharan Africa, thus preparing them for the challenges ahead.
High-Level Experts Enriching the Dialogue
To address these complex issues, the conference featured renowned industry experts who enriched the discussions with in-depth analysis:
- B. Aboubacar TRAORÉ, Supply Chain Director at SOPAMIB, opened the session as the keynote speaker, offering a broad overview of the subject.
- Souleymane D. KABORÉ, Legal Expert/Logistician and Supply Chain Superintendent at Houndé Gold (Endeavour Mining), shared his legal and operational expertise, highlighting the importance of compliance and efficiency on the ground.
- Yves HERVÉ I. YAGO, Specialist in Inventory and Supply Management, SME-SMI Consultant and Trainer, proposed practical, accessible solutions tailored to the realities of local businesses.
All discussions were skillfully moderated by Bernard BOUGMA, journalist, commentator, and renowned coach, who ensured the fluidity and relevance of the debates with precision and energy.
Concrete Action Points for a Strategic Sector
Through experience sharing, in-depth analysis, and practical proposals, the conference truly succeeded in generating concrete action points to enhance the efficiency of the mining supply chain in a landlocked context. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, innovation, and the training of young professionals to overcome logistical challenges and contribute to the sustainable development of Burkina Faso’s mining sector.
