President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, officially opened AOW:Energy 2025 in Accra, marking the start of a landmark week for Ghana, Africa, and the global upstream energy industry.
The event brought together over 1,200 delegates, including ministers, dignitaries, national oil company leaders, CEOs, investors, and technical experts, solidifying its reputation as Africa’s premier platform for upstream development.
In his keynote address, President Mahama welcomed African and international leaders, stressing that the gathering demonstrates the continent’s determination to speak with one voice on natural resource development.
“AOW:Energy is here to stay. It is more than just an event—it is a movement run with African interests first. This is a platform for Africa, by Africa, and it is a moment of national pride for Ghana to host it,” he said.
The President underscored the importance of partnerships, urging African governments to accelerate upstream development, boost energy security, and foster infrastructure growth and intra-African trade. He also highlighted the strong collaboration between the Government of Ghana and AOW:Energy to align domestic priorities with regional cooperation.
A major highlight of the opening ceremony was a tribute to the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) on its 40th anniversary. President Mahama lauded GNPC’s four decades of service, describing it as pivotal to Ghana’s energy progress and socio-economic development.
He also extended appreciation to global and regional partners, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, ENI, Seplat, FIRST E&P, Oando, and TGS, for their sponsorship and support.
“This week reflects unity. This extraordinary gathering of leaders, companies, governments, and investors is proof that our industry is strongest when we work together,” the President said. “AOW:Energy is not only a platform to attract investment, but also a commitment to an African-led agenda—designed to secure our resources, develop our economies, and power our future.”
Concluding his address, President Mahama called for the momentum to continue, pledging an even bigger AOW:Energy 2026 to showcase Africa’s upstream story and strengthen the continent’s role in the global energy industry.
With its successful presidential opening, AOW:Energy 2025 has reinforced its place as Africa’s leading upstream investment platform, where African voices and priorities take the lead.