Moumini Bictogo: 10 things you need to know about the candidate for President of the Côte d'Ivoire Chamber of Mines

Moumini Bictogo, a leading figure in Côte d'Ivoire's mining sector, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency of the Côte d'Ivoire Chamber of Mines. A seasoned entrepreneur and visionary leader, he brings to this candidacy solid experience and a deep commitment to the development of the mining sector, both nationally and continentally. Here are 10 key points to know about this influential businessman and his ambitions.

1. A pillar of the Chamber of Mines

Moumini Bictogo has been an active member of the Côte d'Ivoire Chamber of Mines for many years, where he currently holds the position of 1st Vice-President. His long-standing involvement in this institution bears witness to his attachment to the issues at stake in the sector and his in-depth knowledge of the challenges to be met.

2. Leader of Ivorian mining companies

As Chairman and CEO of mining companies wholly owned by Ivorian capital, he is the embodiment of local entrepreneurial success. His companies are models of economic independence in a sector often dominated by foreign players.

3. A pioneer in bauxite mining

Moumini Bictogo made history by becoming the first Ivorian to explore for and mine bauxite in the country. In 2020, his company produced 255,000 tonnes of this strategic mineral, with ambitions to increase production to 1.2 million tonnes, demonstrating significant growth potential.

4. Architect of the second mining terminal

He is one of the designers of the project to build a second mining terminal on the outskirts of greater Abidjan. This major infrastructure is designed to boost the country's logistics capacity and position Côte d'Ivoire as a regional mining hub.

5. Promoting local content

With more than three mining companies operating in Côte d'Ivoire, Moumini Bictogo makes it a point of honour to include local content in his recruitment policies. This approach promotes the employment of Ivorian talent and strengthens the national economy.

6. An influential network serving the sector

With its national and international contacts, it is recognised as an influential investor whose relationships benefit the mining sector. His connections help to create positive synergies between local players and foreign partners.

7. Four decades of entrepreneurship

With over 40 years' experience in entrepreneurship, Moumini Bictogo has built his career in a variety of sectors, including import-export of agricultural products and trading. This diversity of experience enriches his strategic vision for the mining sector.

8. Honours

His commitment and achievements have been recognised on several occasions. In 2016, he was made an Officer of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, a prestigious recognition of his contribution to national development.

9. Skills recognised by peers

His professional qualities, combined with his proven experience, make him a candidate who is highly regarded by his peers. His ability to lead, his technical expertise and his strategic vision are all assets in his bid to chair the Chamber of Mines.

10. A pan-African ambition

A committed pan-Africanist, Moumini Bictogo has an ambitious mining vision for the continent. He aspires to make Côte d'Ivoire a key player in a regional dynamic in which mining resources are exploited for the benefit of the people of Africa.

A bid for the future

Moumini Bictogo has put forward a roadmap combining experience, economic patriotism and continental projection in his bid to head the Côte d'Ivoire Chamber of Mines. His candidacy, rooted in a detailed knowledge of the sector and a desire to develop Côte d'Ivoire's potential, could mark a turning point for the country's mining industry. All eyes are now on this election, which promises to be decisive for the future of the sector.